VIJAYAPURA
Success in the modern world requires much more than just a college degree. This was the central message from Prof. Ujjwala Chakradeo, Vice-Chancellor of SNDT Women’s University, during her keynote address at the 17th convocation of Karnataka State Akkamahadevi Women’s University. Speaking to a sea of graduates, she emphasized that while Artificial Intelligence is busy redefining jobs, human qualities like empathy and critical thinking remain irreplaceable.
Prof. Chakradeo highlighted that as India marches toward its goal of being a developed nation by 2047, empowered women will be the primary architects of that growth. She argued that true empowerment is not just about a paycheck, it is about the confidence to make independent decisions and the integrity to stay connected to one’s roots. “Learning does not end today,” she told the students. “It is a lifelong journey where adaptability is your greatest strength.”
The university’s own Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Vijaya Kori Shetty, backed this vision by announcing new “earn-while-you-learn” initiatives. Students will soon receive hands-on training in biodiesel production, food processing, and paper recycling. These programs are designed to provide practical skills while helping students support themselves financially.
To further these goals, the university is investing over ₹12 crore in new infrastructure, including a Women’s Technology Park and updated classrooms. The ceremony concluded with Governor Thawar Chand Gehlot conferring honorary doctorates on three distinguished women – Parvatevva Siddappa Hongal, Dr. Sangeeta N. Kattimani, and Ashadevi Jagadish Gudagunti, for their outstanding service to society.
