Gujarat Maritime University held its first graduation ceremony on July 19, 2023. The event celebrated the achievements of students in the maritime sector. Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel was the chief guest at the ceremony. He encouraged youth starting their careers in maritime to focus on national interests and preserve India’s maritime heritage. The Chief Minister highlighted the significant opportunities available in the maritime sector. He stated that India is quickly becoming a leading talent pool for this industry.
During the ceremony, Chief Minister Patel awarded degrees to 250 students, including 188 in the LLM programme and 62 in the MBA programme. Notably, 13 students received gold medals for their outstanding performance, including eight female students. Patel praised Gujarat’s ancient maritime history, referencing the Lothal port, which is over 4,000 years old. He mentioned the ambitious National Maritime Heritage Complex project in Lothal, aimed at enhancing maritime heritage.
The Chief Minister also acknowledged the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi in developing India’s maritime economy. He spoke about the ongoing initiatives like PM Gati Shakti, Sagarmala, and the Blue Economy Mission. These programmes aim to unlock the true potential of India’s ports, logistics, and coastal economy. Patel encouraged the graduating students to contribute to India’s maritime skills and be part of the country’s development as it approaches the centenary of independence in 2047.
Pankaj Joshi, the President of Gujarat Maritime University and the state’s Chief Secretary, welcomed guests and highlighted the university’s achievements in innovation and excellence. He stated that the university is preparing a new generation to lead in the maritime sector. Joshi mentioned that the university has partnered with several world-renowned organizations, including the United Nations Environmental Programme.
The ceremony also included a report on the university’s recent conferences and collaborations. He affirmed that students have access to ample training platforms in the state. Over 100 research papers from students and faculty have been published in prestigious journals, reflecting the university’s commitment to academic excellence. The university was recognized as the ‘Maritime Capacity Building Champion’ by Star Awards 2024.
In closing, the Chief Minister wished the graduates a bright future. The ceremony was attended by various dignitaries, including senior officials from the government and educational experts. This event marks a significant milestone for Gujarat Maritime University as it prepares to play a crucial role in shaping the future of India’s maritime industry.