PUNE: Maharashtra's Minister for Higher and Technical Education, Chandrakant Patil, stated on Saturday that education represents the wealth of the future. He emphasized that both the Government of India and the Government of Maharashtra are prioritizing research- and innovation-based education, with Maharashtra leading the nation in implementing the National Education Policy (NEP 2020).
Minister Patil's Address at ISB&M Convocation
Minister Patil was speaking as the chief guest at the 25th Silver Jubilee Convocation Ceremony of the International School of Business and Media (ISB&M), Pune, held for the graduating class of 2023–2025. Approximately 300 students were awarded degrees during the event.
He expressed confidence that by 2047, India will be among the world's leading nations economically and socially, urging students to contribute to the nation's progress. Considering the institution's growth and quality, the government is positively considering granting it private university status in the future, he revealed. A decision regarding university status for ISB&M will be taken once the required academic standards, infrastructure, and quality benchmarks are met.
Dignitaries Present
Dr. Pramod Kumar, Founder Chairman of ISB&M; Shekhar Mundada, Chairman of the Maharashtra Cow Service Commission; Dr. Atul Kharate, CEO of Indian Oil Adani Ventures Limited; Dr. Saroja Asthana, Founder of Mulshi Group of Institutes; Dr. Bhishmaraj Srivastava, Trustee of PEG; and Dr. Manoj Sharma, among other dignitaries, were present at the ceremony.
India's Economic Growth and Education
Minister Patil said that by 2047, India would emerge as a leading global economic and social power. Despite ongoing global conflicts and economic instability, India is rapidly moving toward becoming the world's third-largest economy. He emphasized that education is not merely a means of obtaining a degree but a powerful tool for personality development, self-confidence, and economic advancement.
Praising ISB&M's educational initiatives, he noted that the institution has made remarkable contributions to industry-oriented education, research, innovation, and the holistic development of students. ISB&M has established a distinct identity in the field of education, and considering its progress and quality, the government is positively evaluating the possibility of granting it private university status. Once all academic, infrastructural, and quality requirements are fulfilled, an appropriate decision will be made. He also expressed confidence that such a status would provide students with world-class education, greater research opportunities, and enhanced international academic collaborations.
Address by Dr. Pramod Kumar
Addressing the students, Dr. Pramod Kumar said that a convocation ceremony marks a significant milestone in a student's life. India is a land of opportunities, and students should embrace entrepreneurship. Quoting Swami Vivekananda, he encouraged students with the message: "Arise, awake, and stop not till the goal is reached." Despite global instability, India's economic growth remains strong. Indian youth possess the capacity for innovation, entrepreneurship, and global leadership, he said.
Shekhar Mundada's Remarks
Speaking on the occasion, Shekhar Mundada said that even if students go abroad and achieve success anywhere in the world, they should contribute to the development of their motherland. Life should value not only success but also service. Students should dedicate a portion of their income to nation-building and social causes. He emphasized that a teacher provides direction in life, and therefore the role of a guru is of immense importance.
Dr. Atul Kharate's Address
Dr. Atul Kharate said that India is making remarkable progress in sectors such as oil and gas, agriculture, infrastructure, and many others. Students like you will play a key role in building a developed India. In the coming years, India will lead the world. Students should remain committed to lifelong learning and continue acquiring knowledge, he added.
Awards and Recognitions
During the ceremony, several students were recognized for their outstanding achievements:
- Shambhavi Swaim received the ISB&M Nande Top Performer Award.
- Jaya Saini received the ISB&M Nande All-Rounder Award.
- Abhiraj Singh Rathod received the ISB&M Nande Leadership Award.
- Sakira Sinha received the ISB&M Kolkata Best Academic Performer Award.
- Anushya Ghosh received the ISB&M Kolkata Best All-Rounder Award.
- Gaurav Kshirsagar received the MIBM All-Rounder Boys Award.
- Leena Pal received the MIBM All-Rounder Girls Award.
The event concluded with the vote of thanks following the formal proceedings.
