.jpg)
A Historic Convocation in Bathinda
Honourable Chief Justice Mr Justice Surya Kant virtually attended the 11th Convocation Ceremony of the Central University of Punjab (CUP) on May 23, 2026. His virtual presence has made this event one of the most prestigious academic moments in the University's history. The 11th convocation, held at the university campus in Bathinda, witnessed the conferment of 981 postgraduate degrees and 92 PhD degrees on students from both within and outside the country. The ceremony also conferred 44 gold medals to students for exceptional academic achievement.
(Punjab and Haryana) High Court Chief Justice Hon'ble Mr Justice Sheel Nagu, (Punjab and Haryana) High Court Judge Hon'ble Mr Justice Sandeep Moudgil and (Punjab and Haryana) High Court Judge Hon'ble Mr Justice Ramesh Chander Dimri also participated online. In-person attendees included Prof. Rajeev Ahuja, Director of IIT Ropar and Prof. (Dr.) Ratan Gupta, Executive Director of AIIMS, Bathinda. Thus, the ceremony affirmed the University's position within the National Academic and Judicial Institutions.
CJI's Address and New Library Inauguration
As a major highlight of the occasion, the newly built University Central Library Building was virtually inaugurated by Chief Justice Surya Kant. The library, occupying approximately 31,410 sq. ft. and estimated at Rs. 14.40 crores, will help the university strengthen its infrastructure for research and academics.
While addressing the gathering as the Chief Guest, Justice Surya Kant extended his best wishes to the graduating students and Gold Medal recipients and described the occasion as a celebration of the academic achievements and aspirations of modern India. He said that the journey of accomplishment is incomplete without the support of others and acknowledged the valuable contributions of parents, teachers and mentors in positioning students for success. While expressing his regret for not being able to attend the program in person, he said that “digital distance need not become emotional distance”.
Justice Surya Kant stated that the Central University of Punjab is a colourful, multidisciplinary university that fosters an atmosphere of academic excellence and a scientific temper. He advised the graduates to uphold the values of the constitution, ethics, honesty and kindness in the fast-changing world of technology and said that the degree is not an end but a beginning of their duties to society and the nation.
Recognising Some Unique Qualities of the Students Who Graduated
The festival of achievement was how Professor Rajeev Ahuja, Director of IIT Ropar, described the opportunity to congratulate the graduating class. He noted the university's strong culture of research and emphasised the importance of creativity, flexible thinking, and collaboration. He reminded the students of their new responsibilities as ambassadors of their university and urged them to take the road less travelled and the path of perseverance as they work toward realising the spirit and creation of Viksit Bharat.
For Prof (Dr). Ratan Gupta, Executive Director of AIIMS Bathinda, said that the creation of a prosperous society was a goal that education should enable us to achieve, but not a primary motivation. Students should develop their character and values, seek to learn throughout life, and nurture creativity and a sense of duty. Education should encourage a sense of responsibility and citizenship.
The university's progress report was presented by Vice-Chancellor Professor Raghavendra P. Tiwari and was centred on CUP's achievements at the university level in academics, research, extracurricular activities, and infrastructure. The University’s NIDHI i-TBI Incubator, E-Yuva Centre, Idea Lab, NABL Accredited Food Testing Laboratory, and Central Instrumentation Laboratory were cited as the University’s contribution toward Atmanirbhar Bharat. The ‘Tapovan of Knowledge’ served as the venue for the ‘Satvik moment’ of the convocation.
Women Lead, Culture Shines, and Key Takeaways for Students
One of the most talked about highlights at the 11th Convocation has been the number of women graduates. At the Central University of Punjab, female students accounted for 52.1% of post-graduate degree awardees and 61.36% of gold medal awardees.
Chancellor Prof. Jagbir Singh, in his Presidential Address, suggested graduates embrace creativity and innovation in the pursuit of their passion, making personal sacrifices for the greater good. In reference to the teachings of Sri Guru Nanak Dev Ji, “Vidya Vichari Tan Parupkari” (which means that one should use their wisdom for the upliftment of others) encouraged graduates to use their scholarship and graduate to serve others. The academic procession was led by the Registrar, Dr. Vijay Sharma, who also gave the formal vote of thanks.
Participants of the convocation were also treated to an array of Punjabi cultural practices. Students wore a white, traditionally knitted khadi dress, male students wore a khadi kurta-pyjama, and female students wore a khadi saree or salwar-kameez. Phulkari stoles were worn by the faculty. This convocation proves that the Central University of Punjab has blossomed into a dynamic institution, with a solid academic and research infrastructure and a commitment to value-based education.
Click Here for More Institutional Activities