Gujarat Maritime University held its first graduation ceremony on July 19. The event was attended by Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel, who delivered a keynote address. A total of 250 students received their degrees, including 62 MBA graduates and 188 LLM graduates. The ceremony also honoured 13 students with gold medals for their outstanding performance, including 8 female students.
During his speech, Chief Minister Patel highlighted the vast opportunities in the maritime sector. He urged young graduates to work towards preserving India’s maritime heritage and contribute to national interests. He stated that India is rapidly becoming a leading supplier of talent in the maritime sector. This growth is crucial as the country aims for higher global expectations.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s leadership has played a significant role in enhancing India’s maritime capabilities. The Chief Minister noted that the government is focused on making Gujarat a hub for port-led development. The establishment of Gujarat Maritime University aims to provide world-class training to create a skilled workforce in the maritime industry.
The university’s first graduation ceremony marked a significant milestone. The Chief Minister praised Gujarat’s historical maritime heritage, referencing the ancient port city of Lothal. He mentioned that the Prime Minister’s vision includes developing a National Maritime Heritage Complex in Lothal.
The Chief Minister also discussed various government initiatives, such as the PM Gati Shakti, Sagarmala, and Blue Economy missions. These programs aim to unlock the true potential of India’s ports and coastal economy. He encouraged graduates to be catalysts for this growth on a global stage.
In his welcome address, the university’s president, Pankaj Joshi, emphasized the institution’s commitment to innovation and excellence. He stated that Gujarat Maritime University is dedicated to shaping a new generation of leaders in the maritime sector. The university has formed partnerships with renowned international organizations, enhancing its global presence.
Moreover, Joshi highlighted the university’s recent achievements in hosting significant conferences and signing over 20 MOUs. The students have access to ample training platforms in the state, ensuring they are well-prepared for their careers.
Over 100 research papers by students and faculty have been published in prestigious journals. Gujarat Maritime University has also received recognition as a ‘Maritime Capacity Building Champion’ by Star Awards 2024.
The graduation ceremony concluded with a vote of thanks from the university’s registrar, Dr Chirag Patel. The event was graced by notable attendees, including senior officials from the state government and families of the graduates.
This ceremony not only celebrated academic achievements but also aimed to inspire the next generation in the maritime field, crucial for India’s future development.