He was delivering the keynote address as Chief Guest at the historic first convocation ceremony of MAEER’s MIT Vishwaprayag University at Kegaon, Solapur. The landmark occasion marked an important milestone in the university’s journey, with 90 students from its Bachelor of Computer Applications (BCA), Master of Business Administration (MBA) and Master of Computer Applications (MCA) programmes receiving their degrees. Seven meritorious students were also felicitated with certificates of merit in recognition of their outstanding academic achievements. Mr. Ram Reddy, Managing Director of Balaji Amines Ltd., attended the ceremony as Guest of Honour.
Addressing the graduating students, Dr. Mashelkar urged them to look beyond academic qualifications and recognise education as a powerful instrument for shaping their futures and bringing about positive social transformation. Emphasising the importance of inclusive innovation, he encouraged them to create greater value for more people with fewer resources. He also appreciated the university’s distinctive educational ecosystem, which integrates sustainability, ethical living and community-engaged learning.
Concluding his address, Dr. Mashelkar shared the principles that have guided his life and career, urging students not merely to knock on doors that remain closed but to create new opportunities for themselves and others. He reiterated that there is no substitute for hard work, perseverance and the courage to pursue ambitious goals.
Presiding over the ceremony, Prof. Dr. Vishwanath D. Karad, Founder-President of MAEER’s MIT Group, emphasised that the true purpose of education lies in harmonising knowledge with character, compassion and humanity. Drawing inspiration from the universal philosophy of Sant Dnyaneshwar, he called upon the graduates to use their knowledge and abilities to promote global peace and discharge their social responsibilities with sincerity and dedication.
Ram Reddy, Managing Director of Balaji Amines Ltd., highlighted the importance of bridging the gap between academic learning and practical industrial experience. He observed that hands-on skills, versatility and effective communication are vital for sustained professional growth and success in an increasingly dynamic industrial environment.
Prof. Swati Karad Chate, Executive President of the university, stressed that determination, dedication and integrity enable individuals to overcome challenging circumstances and achieve their goals. Referring to the transformative influence of artificial intelligence, she underlined the importance of the philosophy of “learn, unlearn and relearn” to remain relevant in a rapidly changing technological landscape. She also encouraged students to remain connected to their roots, emphasising that genuine and sustainable progress must combine scientific advancement with environmental protection and respect for the coexistence of all living beings.
Vice-Chancellor Prof. Gopalakrishna Joshi outlined the university’s commitment to contributing to Solapur’s socio-economic development through quality education, research, start-up incubation and sustainable infrastructure. He highlighted the institution’s green campus initiatives, including its native Miyawaki forest and rainwater harvesting systems, as examples of its commitment to environmental sustainability and social responsibility.
The convocation ceremony was attended by Pro-Vice-Chancellor Dr. Vidya Niranjan; Dr. N. S. Srinath, CEO of Biovet Pvt. Ltd.; Dr. Krishna Venkatesh, Director of the Centre for Incubation, Innovation, Research and Consultancy (CIIRC); Director Raghavendra M. Chate; and several deans, Academic Council members and faculty members.
The proceedings began with a welcome address by Controller of Examinations Prof. Prabha Kasliwal. Prof. Rupali Dhamane coordinated the event, while Registrar Prof. Pranesh Murnal proposed the vote of thanks.
The university’s first convocation marked not only the academic accomplishments of its graduating students but also its broader commitment to nurturing socially responsible, innovative and environmentally conscious professionals equipped to contribute meaningfully to society.
