Photo Source: Babushahi Bureau
Governor of Punjab and Administrator UT Chandigarh confer degrees on Graduates at the 54th Convocation of Punjab Engineering College.
Applauds PEC’s Role in India’s Semiconductor Mission and 5G Innovations
Chandigarh, 19th October2024 The Governor of Punjab and Administrator UT Chandigarh, Sh. Gulab Chand Kataria, graced the 54th Convocation Ceremony of Punjab Engineering College (PEC) today. Addressing the gathering, he expressed his immense pleasure in being a part of this prestigious occasion, noting that the Convocation marks a significant milestone for every educational institution.
During his address, Sh. Kataria mentioned that approximately 763 degrees would be awarded to students across B.Tech, M.Tech, and Ph.D. programs. He congratulated PEC for completing its 100 glorious years of academic excellence and technological contributions on November 9, 2021.
Reflecting on PEC’s rich legacy, Sh. Kataria emphasized that over its prestigious journey of more than 100 years, the institute has produced world-renowned scientists, engineers, researchers, bureaucrats, entrepreneurs, and artists. He highlighted that PEC currently offers 13 undergraduate and 12 postgraduate programs in engineering and technology, as well as Ph.D. programs in engineering, science, humanities, and management, with a current student strength of around 3,500.
Tracing the institute's history, the Governor shared that PEC was established as Mughalpura Engineering College in Lahore, Pakistan, in 1921, and underwent several transitions, including moving to Roorkee post-partition in 1947, before settling in Chandigarh in 1953. In 2003, the institute was conferred Deemed University status.
In his speech, Sh. Kataria also lauded the vision of Prime Minister Narendra Modi for India@2047, where the goal is to make India a developed nation by the centenary of independence. He highlighted the importance of national missions such as Make in India and Digital India, urging students and young professionals to contribute towards building a self-reliant India by promoting indigenous innovation and technological development.
He further applauded the tremendous work done by Indian scientists in developing two indigenous COVID-19 vaccines during the global pandemic. Their efforts, he remarked, underscore India's growing stature as a hub for research and scientific innovation, which is in line with the aspirations of becoming a global leader by 2047.
The Governor also emphasized that PEC has been closely aligned with the nation’s needs, from its role in producing aeronautical engineers for the Indian Air Force in the 1960s to recent recognition by the Government of India for its 5G Use Case Lab and inclusion in the Semiconductor Mission.
He further highlighted that PEC has launched several new programs in recent years, such as B.Tech in Artificial Intelligence, VLSI Design and Technology, and Mathematics and Computing, connecting the institute to cutting-edge scientific and technological innovations.
During his speech, Sh. Kataria congratulated faculty member Dr. Shimi S.L., who was recently honored with the National Teacher Award 2024 by the Hon'ble President of India, Smt. Droupadi Murmu, and recognized the outstanding achievements of PEC students, including those in research and sports.
In closing, the Governor emphasized the importance of continuous learning and urged the graduates to use their knowledge and skills for the development of society and the nation.
He also encouraged the students to stay updated with the latest technological advancements and be active contributors to India’s growth, aligning with national missions such as 'Developed India @ 2047', 'Make in India', and 'Digital India'.
Sh. Kataria concluded his address by wishing the graduates a bright future and encouraging them to dedicate their success to the welfare of society while upholding their responsibility as citizens of India.
Ms Prerna Puri, IAS,Secretary Education
Shri Rajinder Gupta, Chairman BOG
Prof. Rajesh K Bhatia,Director ,PEC,Prof. S. K Mangal,Dean Academic Affairs were also present during the event.