2,721 students awarded degrees at JNU convocation

Encouraging students to embrace innovation, Somanath added, “To be a great leader, you need to be a great follower. Innovation doesn’t happen in isolation – it requires curiosity, the strength to face failure, and the hunger to seek answers…”

“When I joined ISRO, there were a lot of problems and failures. We were criticised for always launching the rocket into the sea. But since then, whatever we have built, is because of the contribution of many people. So, team building is important,” he said.

He urged the youth to look at the “harmonious relationship between modern, scientific research and the knowledge traditions”. “By doing so, we are creating a future that respects both material and spiritual aspects of human existence. You have the knowledge, passion and ability to make a difference. The universe is vast, but so is human potential,” he added.

JNU Vice-Chancellor Santishree Dhulipudi Pandit highlighted the university’s strides in promoting gender equality and women-led development. “Today, 27% of JNU’s leadership comprises women. We have shown that women are as capable as men.”

The ceremony was also attended by guest of honour Sant Kumar Sanganeria, the founder chairman and CEO of Ultra International Limited, JNU Chancellor and former foreign secretary Kanwal Sibal, students, parents, and faculty members.

For many like Maidang, the convocation was both an end and a beginning. Holding her degree, she says, “JNU has been more than just a place of study. It has been a space of growth, resilience, and transformation. The professors and friends I have met here are among the best, guiding me to be the best version of myself.”