Universities as talent incubators
Addressing students, faculty and parents, Shri Goyal said a university’s greatest contribution is to recognise talent, nurture it, and encourage graduates to return and serve the nation. He congratulated the graduating cohort which includes both online and on-campus learners and said the ceremony should spotlight students’ achievements and contributions.
The Minister praised Amity’s scholarship programme, noting that merit-based, need-blind admissions widen opportunity and strengthen social mobility. He also welcomed the fact that nearly half of the student body at Amity comprises young women, calling it a vital driver of inclusive growth.
Recalling Dr B.R. Ambedkar on Mahaparinirvan Diwas, Shri Goyal reiterated constitutional values of equality, social harmony and dignity. He stressed that education is the foundation for uplifting disadvantaged sections and that graduates carry an obligation to translate knowledge into public good.
Quoting the Prime Minister’s call from the Red Fort, Shri Goyal reiterated an appeal for young Indians to consider public life as a vocation. He told students that politics needs committed, ethical leaders and suggested academic programmes should expose learners to governance for example, by enabling internships with elected representatives to give them firsthand experience of public service.
Five guiding prans for the coming 25 years
Shri Goyal outlined five guiding principles or prans drawn from the Prime Minister’s Independence Day address that he said should guide graduates through Amrit Kaal to 2047. First, a collective resolve for a developed India; second, freeing the nation from a colonial mindset; third, pride in India’s heritage; fourth, unity in diversity; and fifth, a spirit of duty towards family, society and nation.
He urged students to internalise these prans and apply them in their careers, research and civic lives, arguing that such values will accelerate India’s progress towards Viksit Bharat.
Innovation, returnees and faculty strength
Highlighting Amity’s innovation culture, Shri Goyal noted the institution holds more than 450 student patents and counts 50 faculty members who returned to India as Ramalingam Swami Fellows. He said such returnees strengthen the academic ecosystem and help turn cutting-edge research into commercial and social impact.
Goyal also urged universities to consider convocation practices that reflect national ethos including exploring traditional Indian attire as an alternative to Western gowns to instil cultural pride along with global exposure.
Praise for teachers and parents
The Minister thanked teachers and parents for their sacrifices and mentorship, reminding graduates that the support network around them plays a critical role in success. He asked alumni to remain engaged with their alma mater and mentor future generations.
Shri Goyal acknowledged challenges ahead but expressed confidence that the education and values imparted at Amity have equipped students to face obstacles with resilience, purpose and ethical clarity.
What graduates are asked to do next
Graduates were urged to push boundaries in their fields, pursue innovation, participate in public life, and contribute to the nation’s socio-economic transformation. Shri Goyal conveyed hope that more young Indians will choose to serve in public roles, accelerating India’s rise to global leadership.
For official coverage of the convocation and related statements, see the Press Information Bureau release and Amity University’s convocation bulletin.