FEROZEPUR: Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann on Saturday said that his government is transforming Punjab’s youth from job seekers into job creators by placing education, technical learning, skill development and sports at the centre of its development agenda. Addressing the maiden convocation ceremony of Shaheed Bhagat Singh University, he said that with 26% of the state budget allocated to education, government schools transformed in just four years and border areas emerging as centres of higher learning, Punjab was opening new avenues for its youth to excel.
Addressing the convocation ceremony in the presence of Governor Punjab Gulab Chand Kataria, CM Bhagwant Singh Mann congratulated the graduating students and called upon them to remain connected with their roots while contributing to society. Congratulating the graduates, he said, “The convocation is a momentous occasion marking the culmination of their hard work and dedication.” He exhorted them to remain humble, contribute meaningfully to society and make their parents and teachers proud.
The Chief Minister said that Shaheed Bhagat Singh University, established in 2021 over 98 acres, currently had more than 2,600 students, with its enrolment expected to double by next year. “Strengthening educational infrastructure in border areas has remained a priority of our government, which has taken several steps to ensure that young people in these regions receive access to quality higher education.”
He said that the real journey of the graduates began after completing their education, when they would face professional responsibilities, interviews and new challenges. He encouraged them to prepare for prestigious competitive examinations, particularly the UPSC (Union Public Service Commission), and aspire to become IAS and IPS officers to serve the nation.
