During the 18th Annual Convocation of Thiruvalluvar University in Vellore, Dr. GA Ramadass, Director of the National Institute of Ocean Technology, highlighted India’s burgeoning status as a global research hub. Speaking at the event presided over by Tamil Nadu Governor RN Ravi, Dr. Ramadass emphasized the increasing government expenditure on education and research and development in every budget cycle.
The ceremony celebrated the graduation of 43,735 students, comprising 37,886 bachelor’s, 5,268 master’s, and 111 MPhil recipients. Notable achievers included 249 PhD, 42 BSc, and 34 MSc graduates, recognized for their academic excellence.
Addressing the audience, Dr. Ramadass underscored India’s rapid advancements in research and its role on the international stage. “India is swiftly becoming a global research hub,” he noted. Government support for education and research is growing, yet critical areas still demand attention. He also highlighted the evolving role of corporations in these fields.
Dr. Ramadass encouraged the graduates to seize the abundant opportunities available to them. He highlighted the disparity between India and China in higher education output, while praising the recent reforms in India’s education policy aimed at aligning with global standards in research and technology.
Reflecting on India’s transformation into a hub for innovation and business, Dr. Ramadass credited the surge in startups and the growth of over 1.22 lakh technology companies in the country. He commended strides made in addressing gender and social discrimination, leading to a more equitable distribution of opportunities.
Dr. Ramadass also lauded Thiruvalluvar University for its contributions to academia, including the publication of research journals and securing research funding. The convocation ceremony, which commenced with welcoming remarks from University Vice-Chancellor T Arumugam, was attended by Registrar J Senthilvel Murugan, Examination Control Officer R Babu Janardhanam, and other dignitaries, marking a significant milestone in the academic journey of the graduates.
