Loyola example inspiring: Vice-Chancellor of the Jindal Global University

Chennai: The most important goal in all institution-building efforts should be "to inspire, encourage and enable our students not only to graduate into successful careers but also to consistently strive to make a positive difference in the societies around them", said Vice-Chancellor Prof C Raj Kumar of the O. P. Jindal Global University.

"This has been Loyola's mission since its inception. The secular nature of Loyola and other similar institutions is the bulwark in these times when there are growing forces in this country and around the world that threaten the basic stances and accomplishments of the pluralistic values that are essential to bring together diverse communities in social and political union", he said delivering his convocation address at the 91st Graduation Day at Loyola College here on Friday.

Complimenting Loyola for its "long history of sustaining inclusivity and diversity within its institutional community", Prof Raj Kumar said in the Indian context, it is "particularly crucial that higher education institutions enable all individuals to gain the opportunities and resources necessary to participate fully in social, political, cultural and economic life".

A total of 1,954 UG&PG students, including 34 differently-abled students and 37 M.Phil candidates received their degree at the ceremony. Among them were 64 prize winners, including a dwarf, Vincent, who won a medal for all-round meritorious performance while receiving his degree in history.

Loyola Rector Fr A M Jayapathy Francis, secretary Rev Dr D Selvanayakam and Principal Rev Dr F Andrew were among those who addressed the large gathering of the new graduates and their proud families in the open air auditorium.