AMU celebrates Independence Day with great fervour
ALIGARH : “Independence does not simply refer to an absence of foreign rule. Rather, it is a relentless commitment to sincerity, justice, and the collective progress of our society. As we appreciate the fruits of freedom, we must also never forget our duties: to work with integrity, to stand against injustice, and to strive for brilliance in all our actions,” said AMU Vice Chancellor, Prof Naima Khatoon, while addressing a gathering of faculty members, students and staff at the historical Strachey Hall after hoisting the national flag on 78th Independence Day of India.
Prof Khatoon stressed that we must remain connected to the principles upon which our country was founded and the threads of diversity, unity, and creativity should be kept intact that have woven the tapestry of Indian culture.
She said that since time immemorial, from Mahabharata and Ramayana to architectural marvels such as the Taj Mahal, great literature, rich languages, and many other facets of our culture have enriched humanity. Mahatma Gandhi’s teachings on nonviolence and truth have inspired global movements for justice and peace for the downtrodden.
She pointed out that the Aligarh Muslim University has made significant contributions to the collective life of the country, especially in science and technology, literature, sports and social arena, and a number of our alumni have been Presidents of nations, ambassadors, ministers, and heads of political parties.
“AMU has been an essential cornerstone of nation-building since its inception and our founder, Sir Syed Ahmed Khan, founded this great centre of learning with nationalist commitment and progressive ideals as its foundational values. In fact, following the Indian philosophy of Vasudhaiv Kutumbkam, AMU seeks pride in being a mini India where diversity of all kinds lives and grows together,” she added.
Prof Khatoon underscored that the recent NIRF ranking of AMU as the 8th best University and 16th best institution in the country validates our efforts committed towards excellence. She emphasized that she has envisioned a more vibrant and progressive campus with a conducive atmosphere for students to dream and prepare for their journeys of holistic success in life.
“In my initial efforts, on priority, I have been trying to make campus life a better experience for the students. A rigorous drive was undertaken during the summer vacation to make the campus clean and comfortable for the students,” she stated.
Prof Khatoon said that India has innumerable achievements in space explorations, like the Chandrayaan and Mangalyaan missions, that inspire a new generation of scientists and engineers, and the country’s phenomenal progress in agriculture, computer science and biotechnology are not mere landmarks; they are the pillars on which we can build a prosperous and progressive future.
She urged the students and faculty members to commit to working tirelessly for the country’s progress, drawing inspiration from our glorious past and visionary leaders.
“We must, however, ensure that technological advancements, especially Artificial Intelligence, are attained with values like empathy and social justice for the furtherance of humanity,” she added.
To mark the occasion, the Vice Chancellor along with other University officials, including Registrar, Mr Mohammad Imran (IPS), Proctor Prof M. Wasim Ali and Provost, S.S. Hall (South), Dr Farooq A. Dar, planted tree saplings on the lawns of Sir Syed Hall (South) and distributed fruits to the ailing students in the University Health Service.
As a part of Independence Day celebrations, the Department of Urdu also organized a poetic evening on the eve of Independence Day at the Assembly Hall of the University Polytechnic. The Vice Chancellor, Prof Naima Khatoon presided over the Mushaira (Poetic Symposium) proceedings. Prof Qamrul Hooda Faridi, Chairman, Department of Urdu welcomed the guests and Prof Seraj Ajmali conducted the proceedings.