Odisha Governor Dr. Hari Babu Kambhampati on Friday called upon the alumni of Utkal University to take a more active role in guiding students, fostering innovation and entrepreneurship, creating employment opportunities, and strengthening industry-academia linkages.
Addressing the 6th Annual Ceremony of the Utkal University Alumni Association as the chief guest on the university campus, the Governor said the true strength of an educational institution is not measured merely by its infrastructure or academic achievements, but by the lives it transforms and the values it passes on to future generations.
Describing Utkal University as a proud symbol of Odisha’s intellectual tradition, Dr. Kambhampati noted that through knowledge, research, and social service, the university has shaped generations of students. The success of its alumni across Odisha, other parts of India, and abroad, he said, reflects the institution’s rich legacy.
Terming alumni the university’s “living ambassadors,” the Governor emphasised that their professional experience, networks, and expertise can greatly benefit current students through mentoring, career guidance, placements, entrepreneurship support, and academic collaboration. He specifically praised the Association’s initiatives such as “Meet the Alumni,” student placement and mentoring programmes, assistance for competitive examinations, and campus cleanliness and plantation drives.
As Odisha advances towards the vision of a developed state and India towards a developed nation, the Governor stressed the need to prioritise skill development, employability, innovation, and entrepreneurship. He also underscored the importance of building a drug-free society, promoting renewable energy, and protecting the environment as part of sustainable development.
Dr. Kambhampati advised students to make the most of available opportunities, continuously upgrade their knowledge and skills, remain open to new ideas, and draw inspiration from teachers, seniors, and distinguished alumni.
During the ceremony, former MP and renowned film personality Dr. Prashant Nanda, Padma Shri Kumkum Mohanty, Professor Dr. Umacharan Mohanty, and former Comptroller and Auditor General of India and former Lieutenant Governor of Jammu & Kashmir Dr. Girish Chandra Murmu were felicitated for their outstanding contributions in cinema and culture, arts, scientific research, and public service. The Governor expressed confidence that their achievements would inspire the younger generation.
On the occasion, the Governor also launched the new website of the Alumni Association, describing it as an important platform to connect alumni across generations and geographies, facilitate knowledge exchange, mentoring, and stronger ties with the university.
Other speakers included Dr. Prashant Nanda, Dr. Girish Chandra Murmu, Utkal University Vice-Chancellor Professor Chandi Prasad Nanda, and Alumni Association General Secretary Debendra Prasad Das. The programme began with a welcome address by Association President and retired IPS officer Dr. Satyajit Mohanty, and concluded with a vote of thanks by Joint Secretary Professor B.K. Dash.
