Visakhapatnam. The first convocation ceremony marks a significant milestone in the journey of any university. Such an occasion arrived for the university in Visakhapatnam on June 30, 2026, as it held its inaugural convocation ceremony nearly seven years after its establishment. President Droupadi Murmu attended the event, held at the V Convention Centre, Novotel, as the chief guest.

Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan, Andhra Pradesh Governor S. Abdul Nazeer, and senior ministers from the state government were also present on the occasion. During the ceremony, degrees and certificates were formally awarded to the university's students for the first time.

Emphasis on Linking Education to Local Needs

In her address, President Droupadi Murmu highlighted the need to promote research and innovation in sectors linked to the livelihoods of tribal communities. She underscored the role of higher education in areas such as forest produce, handicrafts, millets, medicinal plants, eco-tourism, and local entrepreneurship.

The President expressed the expectation that the university would not only provide modern education to tribal youth but also keep them connected to their culture and traditional local knowledge. She emphasized the need to link education with livelihood opportunities and regional development, rather than limiting it merely to the acquisition of degrees.

Academic Expansion Over Seven Years

This ceremony was a significant milestone in the university's growth, as it marked the first time students were formally awarded degrees and certificates since its inception seven years ago. This event heralded the beginning of a new phase in the university's academic journey.

According to the university, by the time of this first convocation, its academic activities had expanded to encompass 13 departments. Additionally, various undergraduate, postgraduate, integrated, and research programs were being conducted.

For the university, the first convocation ceremony was not merely an occasion to award degrees to students; it also served as a pivotal moment to showcase its academic journey thus far and outline its future direction.