Aligarh Muslim University celebrates the 76th Republic Day of India with fervour and enthusiasm

Aligarh Muslim University News
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ALIGARH January 26: “As we celebrate Republic Day, we must ask ourselves: How can AMU contribute more rigorously to our nation’s progress and prosperity? The answer lies in our collective will to innovate, inspire and include. This objective can be achieved by strengthening our mission of educating minds, uplifting each other, and driving innovation with purpose,” said the Vice Chancellor of Aligarh Muslim University, Prof. Naima Khatoon, while addressing a large gathering of faculty members, students and staff at Strachey Hall on the occasion of the 76th Republic Day of India.

AMU celebrated Republic Day with great enthusiasm and joy, commemorating the adoption of the Constitution in 1950.

Following the traditional parade by NCC cadets and the unfurling of the Tricolour, Vice Chancellor Prof. Khatoon remarked, “Education is the cornerstone of progress, and as Dr. B.R. Ambedkar rightly said, ‘Cultivation of mind should be the ultimate aim of human existence.’ Our responsibility goes beyond academics—we must nurture a generation of individuals who are not only knowledgeable but also principled, compassionate, and socially responsible.”

She emphasised that AMU must continue to be a place where diversity is celebrated, inclusion is championed, and justice is upheld.

Prof. Khatoon further stated, “In this era of rapid technological advancements, AMU must continue to excel as a hub of research and innovation that addresses the most pressing challenges of our times. From climate change to healthcare, from digital transformation to rural development, our focus must be on creating solutions that improve lives and strengthen our nation.”

She highlighted AMU’s initiative to encourage faculty members to develop and offer VOC/VAC/Elective courses through the SWAYAM platform. She added that new-age courses in areas such as Artificial Intelligence, Data Science, and Environmental Studies are being integrated into the curriculum. In the July-October 2024 session, 31 SWAYAM MOOCs were developed and launched, covering 20 disciplines, with 16,365 students enrolled to date.

Prof. Khatoon urged the AMU fraternity to strengthen India’s democracy by remaining united, committed, and positive in their attitudes.

“On this Republic Day, let us pledge to uphold Sir Syed’s vision and the Constitution of India. Let us work together to make AMU a beacon of progress, a sanctuary of values, and a pillar of this great nation’s academic and cultural legacy,” she concluded.

AMU students Ms. Syeda Zainab Rais (BA English) and Mr. Shahan Usmani (MBBS 2nd Year) also delivered speeches during the event.

The program was conducted by AMU Registrar, Mr. Mohammad Imran (IPS).
The Vice Chancellor later distributed prizes to the winners of the Mini-Marathons organised by the University Games Committee and Ahmadi School for the Visually Challenged. In the Men’s category, Mohd Qamar Abedeen, Haider Abbas, and Krishna Singh secured first, second and third places, respectively. In the Women’s category, Purnima Sharma, Vanshika Raj, and Sarika Sharma secured the first, second and third places.

In the Republic Day Marathon organised by ASVC, Jeevan Baboo, Zain Usmani, and Irfan won first, second and third places in the Boys’ category, while Atifa Khatoon, Taiyyab and Zehra Batool secured the first, second and third places in the Girls’ category.

Earlier in the day, a Prabhat Pheri program was organised at STS School and Abdullah Hall. Celebrations were also held across various university offices, faculties, colleges, departments, and schools.

The National Flag was unfurled at key locations, including the Vice Chancellor’s Lodge, the Administrative Block by the Registrar, Mr. Mohammad Imran (IPS), Maulana Azad Library, the Faculty of Arts, and all schools and colleges of the University. Flags were also hoisted at the offices of the Deans and DSW, all Provost Offices, and the Proctor’s Office. Iconic university buildings such as the Administrative Block, M.A. Library, Victoria Gate, University Polytechnic Auditorium, Baab-e-Syed, and the Arts Faculty building were illuminated in the Tricolour.

The Vice Chancellor also visited the University Health Service to meet indoor patients and distribute fruits. In addition, tree saplings were planted on the lawns of Sir Syed Hall as part of the celebrations.

Public Relations Office
Aligarh Muslim University