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NIIT University (NU) was inaugurated with much fanfare on November 15, 2009. It was a day that marked the beginning of a new era in Higher Education in India. NIIT University is now all set to becoming the leading centre of innovation and learning in the emerging areas of the knowledge society.

The day started with a buzz of excitement and energy for everyone on the campus. The campus looked astounding with decorations and Rangoli patterns all over the campus, to welcome the guests.

Soon Dr Karan Singh, Member of Indian Parliament, and Chairperson, NIIT University, arrived on the campus. His charm and poise enthralled all present. Sri Rajendra Pawar, Founder, NIIT University and Dr. Singh inaugurated the Mobius Ring, the emblem of NU, symbolising the seamless feature of knowledge.
This was followed by a tea break and a guided tour of the campus for all the guests. Our BTech students volunteered enthusiastically to do this.

Soon after the campus tour, all guests settled down in the tightly packed auditorium. The programme started with a ceremonial lighting of lamps. This was followed by an enchanting invocation by the BTech students, led by Dr. Snigdha Biswas. Shampi Venkatesh was the graceful host and moderator for the event.

Sri Rajendra Pawar, fondly called Raji, shared with the audience his journey of transforming his vision of NIIT University into reality. It was a journey filled with challenges and the pleasure of overcoming those challenges. Raji talked about all those who made the journey possible, his mentors and colleagues. He described his long and painstaking search for the ideal President for NU, incorporating all its ideals. Raji introduced the new President of NU, Dr. Rajeev Shorey, who delivered a welcome speech.

Then Dr Karan Singh was invited to deliver the 1st Lecture of NIIT University. Starting with the recitation of a Shloka explaining the concept of ‘Seamlessness’, he instantly captured the attention of all present. In Vedanta, he said, there is no concept of Duality, as the same force manifests itself in every universal life. He explained the concept of ‘Anadi-Anant’, which means that knowledge and consciousness are eternal, without beginning, without end.

He congratulated NU for bringing together great minds from all spheres towards the common goal of bringing holistic education to the youth of the country. He said that the four core-principles of NU, of being ‘industry-linked’, ‘technology-based’, ‘research-driven’, and ‘seamless, run parallel to the 4 pillars of learning described by a UNESCO report on education: “Learning- The Treasure Within”.
As per the report, the four factors that are of paramount importance for effective learning are:

1. Learning to Know – this is the art of extracting knowledge from the huge amount of information available these days, and to gain wisdom from the knowledge thus acquired.
2. Learning to Do- Knowledge in itself is of no use if it is not utilized, and thus arises the importance of practical training.
3. Learning to Live Together – this is crucial in today’s time where there is a growing sense of intolerance towards the faith and beliefs of others. This principle teaches one to be respectful to all faiths and cultures.
4. Learning to Be – perhaps the most important, this principle teaches the student to be at peace with his/her own-self. This comes from meditation and introspection, and leads to the spiritual and inner-growth of the student.

Dr. Singh emphasized on the importance of Values: family values, societal values, inter-faith values, environmental values and global values. He said that non-adherence to these is responsible for the moral degeneration that we see around these days. He urged students to embrace and follow these time-tested values for becoming responsible citizens.
The speech left the audience spell-bound. They gave a standing ovation to Dr Singh for the unforgettable and inspiring lecture.

Vijay Thadani, Member Board of Management, concluded the proceeding with a vote of thanks, with a special mention to the families of all involved with NU, for giving their whole-hearted support.
The day ended with a delicious Rajasthani lunch, which was greatly appreciated by the guests and students alike.

To view more pictures from the event, click here