Lucknow: The first convocation ceremony of Atal Bihari Vajpayee Medical University, Lucknow, was held with grandeur and dignity under the chairmanship of the Governor and Chancellor of State Universities, Anandiben Patel.
At the ceremony, the Governor awarded a total of 8,507 degrees, of which 6,150 (72%) were secured by women students, while male students accounted for 28%. Outstanding performers were honoured with 73 gold and silver medals, and once again women dominated, bagging 82% of the honours.
In a significant gesture, the Governor also distributed kits to 300 Anganwadi centres to strengthen their functioning and ensure better support for child and maternal health.
Speaking on the occasion, Governor Patel described the convocation as historic, recalling her personal association with former Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee. She hailed the overwhelming success of women graduates as a sign of changing times, emphasizing that “there is no longer any field where women do not hold dominance.”
She urged students to dedicate themselves to public service and highlighted the growing contribution of women in fields as diverse as agriculture, medicine, and research. She stressed the need to establish a medical college within the university campus to further strengthen medical education and infrastructure.
Governor Patel also called for the preparation of an annual calendar of school competitions on themes such as environmental conservation, water preservation, cleanliness, dowry prohibition, and child marriage awareness, to nurture social responsibility among children.
Focusing on maternal and child health, she directed the university to provide specialized training to Anganwadi workers so they can guide pregnant women with scientific and practical knowledge on nutrition, safe childbirth, and child care. She further suggested creating a composite medical kit with AYUSH, allopathy, and homeopathy support to ensure better healthcare for children.
The Governor emphasized student welfare, calling for strict measures against exploitation of women medical students, a ban on mid-session fee hikes, and compulsory haemoglobin tests for girl students. She also underscored the importance of doctors serving patients with sensitivity, compassion, and humanity, regardless of circumstances.
The event also saw the release of university publications, the uploading of all degree certificates to DigiLocker, and the felicitation of schoolchildren who excelled in art and environmental awareness competitions.
Deputy Chief Minister Brajesh Pathak congratulated women students for their remarkable achievements, terming it a matter of pride for Uttar Pradesh. He announced plans for a central library and a new medical college within the university campus, along with initiatives to promote research.
Minister of State for Medical Education Mayankeshwar Sharan Singh and Vice-Chancellor Dr. Sanjeev Mishra also extended their best wishes to the graduates.
The ceremony was attended by senior government officials, university faculty, council members, Anganwadi workers, students, schoolchildren, and dignitaries from across the state.
