923 students receive degrees at CUK’s 9th convocation

Technological self-sufficiency should be a core goal of Indian universities, N. Kalaiselvi, Director General of the Council of Scientific and Industrial Research and Secretary of the Department of Scientific and Industrial Research, has said. Addressing the ninth convocation ceremony, during which 923 degrees were conferred, at the Central University of Kerala (CUK), Ms. Kalaiselvi said indigenous technologies must meet most national needs as the country moves towards the 2047 development target.

She said rapid technological shifts demand that universities launch more start-up and incubation centres, noting that earlier restrictions on technology access had slowed India’s progress. The country overcame this through policies prioritising science and technology, recognising science as integral to daily life rather than merely an academic pursuit, she added.

Ms. Kalaiselvi praised the CUK for initiatives such as the seed fund for research and the Earn While You Learn scheme, which allows students to support themselves during studies. She urged students to evolve from job seekers into job creators and to focus on contributing meaningfully to society.

Highlighting Kerala’s achievements in literacy and poverty eradication, she also pointed to Kasaragod’s unique identity as a confluence of seven languages and emphasised the favourable environment for women’s empowerment in the country.

Of the graduating students, 36 received bachelor’s degrees, 771 master’s degrees, 36 PhDs, and 80 PG diplomas. A total of 750 graduates attended the event in person. Gold medals were also awarded to meritorious students.

Officiating Chancellor Siddu P. Algur, Officiating Vice-Chancellor Vincent Mathew, and other members of the university’s statutory bodies were present.