SHIMLA- 23 September, 2026-Governor Kavinder Gupta said that in the present context, merely obtaining a degree was not enough. There was a need for an education system that imparted knowledge along with skills, confidence, employability and opportunities for entrepreneurship.

The Governor was addressing the foundation day celebrations of Shri Sai University at Palampur in Kangra district today.

Shri Gupta said that the real identity of any university was defined by its contribution to knowledge, values, research, innovation and society. He said that the academic journey of the Shri Sai Group, which began at Badhani in 1996, was an inspiring example of long-term commitment and sustained efforts in the field of education.

Highlighting Himachal Pradesh’s unique geographical conditions, the Governor said that many parts of the state were mountainous, rural and remote. In such circumstances, establishing an institution of higher education in a region was not merely an academic achievement but also an important instrument of social transformation, opening new avenues of opportunity for local youth.

Shri Gupta said that the impact of establishing a university was not confined to one generation but extended to generations to come. Visionary leadership, he said, should consider not only present requirements but also the possibilities and challenges of the next 20, 30 and even 50 years.

Describing India as a young nation, the Governor said that universities needed to further strengthen their linkages with industry to channelize the energy and potential of the youth. The Governor said to students that “your goal should not be limited to securing a job. You should also aspire to become capable of creating employment opportunities for others”.

He said that India today was witnessing a growing ecosystem of innovation, start-ups and entrepreneurship. Universities, therefore, should create an environment where students become not merely job seekers, but employment creators, problem-solvers and innovators capable of turning new ideas into reality.

Referring to the National Education Policy-2020, the Governor said that Prime Minister Narendra Modi had emphasized making education more holistic, flexible, multidisciplinary and aligned with the future requirements. Access, equity, quality, affordability and accountability were among the important pillars of the policy, while research, innovation, skills and multidisciplinary learning had been encouraged in higher education.

He said that the emphasis on skills, startups and innovation also provided a clear direction to universities to prepare young people who could contribute to the nation through knowledge, skills, innovation and entrepreneurship.

The Governor expressed particular appreciation for the university’s focus on education related to mountain and mountaineering activities. He said that Himachal Pradesh possessed natural and distinctive potential in this field.

“Our mountains are not merely a symbol of our identity; they are also important foundations for tourism, adventure sports, environmental conservation, disaster management, sports science and local employment,” he said.

He urged the university to integrate education, training, research and practical experience in this field and develop an exemplary model through which the youth of Himachal Pradesh could establish themselves at the national and international levels.

Addressing the students, Kavinder Gupta said that they were the greatest asset of the university and should make the best use of the opportunities available to them. He called upon them to respect their teachers, remain committed to continuous learning and move forward with technology while remaining connected with their roots and culture.

He advised the students not to fear failure, saying that failure was not the end but an opportunity to learn and improve.

“Never compromise on three things in life - discipline, hard work and honesty. If these three become an integral part of your life, the path to success will continue to open before you,” he said.

Earlier, Chancellor of Shri Sai University S.K. Punj welcomed the Governor and highlighted the academic journey and achievements of the university.

Deputy Commissioner Kangra Hemraj Bairwa, Superintendent of Police Kulbhushan Verma, Vice Chancellor Prof. V.P. Patial, Managing Director of the university Tripta Punj, Pro-Vice Chancellor Tushar Punj, Vice President Riya Punj and other prominent people were also present on the occasion.