Role of Youth in Shaping the Future of Technology and Research Highlighted by Prof. Abhay Karandikar at KLE Technological University Convocation
The youth of India will define the next chapter of this nation’s story, playing a pivotal role in research,
technology development, and entrepreneurship,” said Prof. Abhay Karandikar, Secretary, Department of Science &
Technology, Government of India, at the 6th annual convocation of KLE Technological University.
Delivering the convocation address, Prof. Karandikar emphasized the transformative power of science, technology, and
innovation in today’s rapidly evolving world. He called on the graduating students to harness their creativity and
innovative spirit to propel India forward on the global scientific and technological stage.
Highlighting key government initiatives fostering innovation, Prof. Karandikar mentioned the establishment of the
Anusandhan National Research Foundation (ANRF) with a ?1 lakh crore fund to support research and collaboration
across universities, industries, and research institutions. He also pointed to initiatives such as the National
Mission on Quantum Technologies & Applications and Digital India, which aim to position India as a leader in quantum
computing and enhance public services through digital technology.
Prof. Karandikar also welcomed the increasing participation of women in STEM fields, praising initiatives like the
Women Scientists’ Scheme and the Gender Advancement for Transforming Institutions (GATI) for promoting gender
equality and empowering women in science and technology.
Honorary Doctorates Conferred
KLETU Chancellor Prabhakar Kore conferred honorary doctorates on industrialist and former minister Murugesh Nirani
and Aequs founder Arvind Melligeri. Mr. Nirani, in his acceptance, invited the KLE Society to establish an
educational institution in Bagalkot, pledging five acres of land for the initiative.
University Achievements
Vice-Chancellor Prakash Tewari highlighted KLETU’s journey toward becoming a Multi-Disciplinary Research-Intensive
University by 2030. He lauded the university's incubation center, which has nurtured 75 start-ups, creating 3,000
jobs and offering internships to 5,500 students.
Degrees and Medals
A total of 1,367 degrees, including 293 postgraduate degrees and 17 doctorate degrees, were awarded during the
convocation. Thirty-seven medals, including the prestigious Dr. S. S. Bhavikatti Gold Medal for Civil Engineering,
were presented to outstanding graduates.
KLETU’s convocation reaffirmed its commitment to fostering innovation, research, and entrepreneurship, empowering
graduates to contribute meaningfully to India's scientific and technological advancements.