Odisha Higher Education Minister Arun Kumar Sahoo, during his speech in the university’s alumni meet, declared that President Ram Nath Kovind will attend a special function on December 8, signifying the culmination of the year-long platinum jubilee celebrations. Dharmendra Pradhan, Petroleum & Natural Gas and Steel Minister also attended the meeting as chief guest. Both Sahoo and Pradhan are alumni of Utkal University.
Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik had inaugurated the platinum jubilee celebrations of the university and declared a grant of Rs 100 crore for setting up six centres of excellence. Furthermore, Dharmendra Pradhan has also assured to grant his entire years’ salary for the development of his alma mater. Pradhan also suggested that the university establishes an alumni association fund to initiate donations for its development.
“The university which has turned 75 years occupies a prominent place in the history of Odisha. It has produced many leaders, bureaucrats, litterateurs, and entrepreneurs and it is now up to the alumni to give back to the alma mater,” Pradhan said.
The university will be hosting several programmes as part of this celebration. The inauguration ceremony was held on Saturday and Alumni Meet on Sunday. Meanwhile, the Parent’s Meet was held on Monday and the following day was chalked out for the “Students Connect” programme. Foundation Day of the university will be conducted on November 27. Finally, the conclusion of the whole celebration will take place on December 8.