Andhra University To Launch Centenary Celebrations Tomorrow With Alumni At The Core

Visakhapatnam: Andhra University will commence its centenary celebrations on April 26 with a year-long series of academic, cultural, and outreach events, anchored by active alumni engagement and strategic development initiatives.

Vice-Chancellor Professor G.P. Rajashekar announced the detailed schedule, starting with a walkathon at 6 a.m. from RK Beach to the AU Convention Centre, inaugurated by district collector M.N. Harendhira Prasad. A balloon-launching ceremony will follow at the AU administrative building, led by city police commissioner Dr Shankha Brata Bagchi. The main event at 3:30 p.m. will feature dignitaries including APSCHE chairman Professor K. Madhumurthy and IIT Palakkad director Professor A. Seshadri Shekhar. A vision document and event calendar will be unveiled.

Rajashekar said the centenary will focus on enhancing academic standards, upgrading infrastructure, and deepening community outreach. Key projects include a central laboratory, rural engagement programmes through affiliated colleges, and the construction of an "Iconic Tower" to honour AU’s legacy. Funding will be sourced from alumni contributions and corporate social responsibility initiatives.

Founded in 1926 under the Madras University Act, Andhra University has shaped the Telugu-speaking region’s academic landscape. Its early leadership included Sir C.R. Reddy and Dr Sarvepalli Radhakrishnan. The university has produced Padma awardees, top scientists, and legal and academic leaders, with alumni in senior positions across India and abroad.

A major alumni reunion drive is underway. The Andhra University Alumni Association (AAA) will play a central role, with mentorship and teaching initiatives planned.

The Forum for Development of North Andhra has urged the university's Chancellor and the Governor of Andhra Pradesh to attend the event, calling AU a symbol of educational excellence since the colonial era.