Patiala, April 30
“Punjabi University has spread the fragrance of ‘Punjabiyat’ across the globe. This prestigious institution is like a mother to all of us.”
These remarks were made by Dr. Jagdeep Singh, Vice-Chancellor of Punjabi University, Patiala, while presiding over a special function organized to celebrate the university’s 65th Foundation Day.
He stated that Punjabi University is not just a conventional educational institution, but a central hub for Punjabi language, art, and culture, which has carved a unique identity for itself over the past six decades. Reflecting on the university’s journey, he highlighted its crucial role in reconnecting Punjabis worldwide with their heritage.
While sharing the achievements of the past year, Dr. Jagdeep Singh urged students and researchers to achieve new milestones in research to enhance the university’s international reputation. He acknowledged the current financial challenges but expressed confidence that the institution’s prestige would be upheld through the collective efforts of faculty, staff, and students.
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The Foundation Day lecture was delivered by Dr. Satbir Singh Gosal, Vice-Chancellor of Punjab Agricultural University (PAU), Ludhiana. Dr. Gosal emphasized the strong academic bond between PAU and Punjabi University, noting that the uniqueness of both institutions lies in their direct connection with the rural masses.
He shared insights into PAU’s working style and achievements, and expressed hope for greater academic collaboration between the two universities in the future.
In an emotional address, Dr. Narinder Singh Kapoor recalled how the Malwa region of Punjab was once considered backward. He credited Punjabi University with playing a major role in transforming the region. Dr. Kapoor, who was a student of the university’s second batch, expressed pride in his alma mater.
He said that the real purpose of a university is to generate new ideas, produce social leaders, and drive positive modern change — a responsibility that Punjabi University has fulfilled exceptionally well. He also reminisced about the early days when the university had no campus of its own and classes were held at Govt. Mohindra College and Thapar College.
Dr. Kapoor cautioned that in the era of globalization, the university faces new challenges. He stressed that we can no longer compare ourselves only with regional institutions; we are now competing with universities across the world. To stay ahead, he said, the university must adopt new technical skills and modern education systems.
During the event, special honors were conferred upon three distinguished personalities:
- Dr. Tarlok Singh Anand (a student from the university’s very first batch)
- Dr. Malkit Singh Saini (the first PhD scholar of the Zoology Department)
- Sukhi Bal (the first Punjabi woman to scale Mount Ama Dablam in Nepal)
The welcome address was delivered by Registrar Dr. Davinder Pal Singh Sidhu, while the vote of thanks was proposed by Dean Academic Affairs, Dr. Jaswinder Singh Brar.
