Pankaja Munde Inspires Students at Ajeenkya DY Patil University Convocation

Pune: Victories and defeats are a part of life, but one should never lose hope and must continue to fight with determination, said Maharashtra’s Minister for Animal Husbandry, Environment and Climate Change, Pankaja Gopinath Munde, while addressing students at the 10th Convocation Ceremony of Ajeenkya DY Patil University.

Speaking to graduating students, Munde said life offers both success and setbacks. “Some things come easily, others do not. But never give up hope. Keep striving forward,” she urged, encouraging students to remain positive and resilient as they step into a new phase of life.

The convocation was presided over by Dr. Ajeenkya DY Patil, Chancellor of the university. Distinguished guests present included His Excellency Dharamkumar Seeraj, High Commissioner of the Cooperative Republic of Guyana to India; Dr. Rakesh Kumar Jain, Vice Chancellor of the university; Dr. Nishikant Ojha, Chief Advisor – Strategic Affairs Chairman – Study Group, Integrated Defence Staff, Government of and Dr. Sudhakar Shinde, Registrar, along with deans from various departments.

On the occasion, the university conferred Doctor of Literature (D.Litt.) degrees upon several eminent personalities, including former Indian cricket team captain Rohit Sharma, Minister Pankaja Gopinath Munde, social entrepreneur and strategic advisor Manoj Pochat, Executive Chairman of Goldiam International Ltd Rashesh Bhansali, Founder of Sanatan Dharma Foundation Sudesh Aggarwal, and Ujjain-based spiritual leader Pramod Sharma.

Addressing students, Munde said they were beginning a new journey filled with dreams and aspirations. “Work hard to achieve your dreams, but do not chase only material success. Strive to become happy individuals. Positivity will be your greatest source of energy,” she said.
Chancellor Dr. Ajeenkya DY Patil said that the vision of building an educated India was a dream cherished by his father, and the university is committed to fulfilling that vision. “India is emerging as a global power, and the responsibility on students is greater than ever,” he noted. He added that the university is progressing as a hub of innovation and aims to nurture new ideas and creativity among students.

Vice Chancellor Dr. Rakesh Kumar Jain said innovation is embedded in the very identity of Ajeenkya DY Patil University. “We encourage students to think independently and focus on creation and innovation,” he said, adding that along with traditional disciplines such as engineering and law, the university has introduced new-age programs to foster creativity and innovation.

The programme was smoothly anchored by noted actress Vidya Malvade, and concluded with an inspiring message for graduates to embrace challenges with confidence, optimism, and perseverance.