Interdisciplinary Approach Key to Solving Global Challenges: Ajay Sood

TIRUPATI: Stating that global challenges such as climate change, pandemics, energy transition and digital transformation cannot be addressed by any single discipline, principal scientific adviser to the Central government Prof. Ajay Kumar Sood has called upon students to integrate science, technology and social understanding to develop sustainable solutions.

Delivering the convocation address at Sri Venkateswara University's combined 63rd to 68th convocations here on Wednesday, Sood stressed the importance of interdisciplinary learning and collaboration in tackling complex global issues. He said effective and sustainable solutions require the convergence of scientific knowledge, technological advancements and societal perspectives.

He urged graduating students to embrace diverse viewpoints and work across disciplines while addressing emerging challenges.

Highlighting the growing role of robotics, Sood said the technology is transforming sectors such as manufacturing, healthcare, agriculture, logistics and defence. From surgical robots to agricultural automation, robotics is enhancing productivity and improving the quality of life, he noted.

Describing robotics as a field that combines computer science, engineering, creativity and problem-solving skills, he encouraged students to adopt an interdisciplinary approach in their professional and research pursuits.

Chancellor of the University and Governor S. Abdul Nazeer said India is gaining global recognition as one of the world's fastest-growing economies and a hub for knowledge and innovation. He said the country's ability to harness its demographic dividend depends on transforming its youth into productive human resources through education, skills, innovation and values.

The Governor appreciated S.V. University's efforts to strengthen research infrastructure, digital governance, interdisciplinary collaborations and industry-oriented education, particularly in emerging areas such as quantum technology and critical minerals.

Vice-Chancellor Prof. Tata Narasinga Rao said the university would continue to strengthen its research ecosystem, expand international collaborations, promote entrepreneurship and embrace emerging technologies in line with the vision of Viksit Bharat 2047.

The university conferred honorary doctorates on Prof Sood, Bharat Biotech executive chairman Krishna Ella and former CSIR director general Shekhar C Mande in recognition of their contributions to their respective fields.

During the combined convocations, 2,713 candidates received degrees in person and 719 in absentia, while 12,141 students had secured their degrees in advance. A total of 502 gold medals and 260 book prizes were awarded to meritorious students.