Bhubaneswar: Governor Hari Babu Kambhampati on Sunday urged members of the Alumni Association of JNU, Odisha (AAJO) to play an active role in mentoring and guiding the state’s youth. He said their experience, knowledge, and insights are invaluable resources for shaping the next generation.
Delivering the keynote address at the annual conference of the alumni association held at the College of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Husbandry, OUAT, the Governor emphasised that alumni associations serve as bridges between past achievements and future aspirations. First Lady Jayasree Kambhampati was also present on the occasion.
Speaking on the role of Jawaharlal Nehru University (JNU), he said, “For decades, JNU has been a premier higher education institution, known not only for academic excellence but also for fostering critical thinking, openness of thought, and a deep sense of social responsibility. These qualities are the true strength of any great institution, and JNU has consistently upheld them.”
The Governor highlighted the global achievements of JNU alumni in fields such as education, public service, policy-making, science, media, literature, and diplomacy. He said their contributions reflect not just individual excellence but also a commitment to broader social goals. “Alumni play a crucial role in nation-building and in shaping ideas at both national and international levels,” he added.
Referring specifically to Odisha, the Governor said the state can greatly benefit from a vibrant alumni network. He noted that mentorship provided by alumni helps students shape careers, develop socially responsible perspectives, and ensures that education has a tangible impact beyond the classroom.
He also urged the alumni to actively contribute to the state’s development, noting that Odisha, with its rich cultural heritage and rapid progress in education, infrastructure, technology, and social welfare, requires collective efforts to achieve inclusive and sustainable growth.
The conference also featured addresses by Chief Information Commissioner Manoj Kumar Parida and OUAT Vice-Chancellor Pravat Kumar Roul. Alumni Association of JNU, Odisha (AAJO) president Sangram Keshari Mohapatra delivered the welcome address, while General Secretary Manas Ranjan Nanda proposed the vote of thanks.
