“Degrees Become Meaningful Only When They Translate into Employability: Vice-President”
FinTech BizNews Service
Mumbai, March 21, 2026: In the present era, it is not sufficient for students to merely obtain a degree; it is essential that the degree is translated into employment. Along with technical knowledge, soft skills and the ability to adapt to changing technologies are considered the key to success. Youth aspiring to become entrepreneurs should follow the example of Ratan Tata. Tata stands as an excellent example of how to fulfill social responsibility along with earning profits. The progress of every individual contributes to the progress of society, the state, and ultimately the nation, stated Vice President C. P. Radhakrishnan.
The first convocation ceremony of Ratan Tata Maharashtra State Skill University was held at the Durbar Hall, Raj Bhavan, Mumbai. Vice President C. P. Radhakrishnan was speaking at the event. Governor Jishnu Dev Varma, Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde, Deputy Chief Minister Sunetra Ajit Pawar, Minister for Skill Development, Employment, Entrepreneurship and Innovation Mangal Prabhat Lodha, Vice-Chancellor Dr. Apurva Palkar, Chief Secretary Rajesh Agrawal, Additional Chief Secretary Manisha Verma, Skill Development Commissioner Dr. Amit Saini, Director of Vocational Education and Training Dr. Satish Suryavanshi, along with students of the university, were present.
Vice President C. P. Radhakrishnan stated that the graduates of the first convocation ceremony have become part of history. These students have not only achieved academic success but will also mark a milestone in India’s journey to become a “Global Skill Hub.” It is necessary to align curriculam with industry demands. By including modern subjects such as Artificial Intelligence, Robotics, Green Energy, and Data Analytics, students should be prepared for global challenges. He cited Japan’s progress after World War II, despite lacking natural resources, as an example of discipline and hard work. Japanese people remain focused while working, and Indian youth should adopt the same dedication, he said.
He further stated that aspiring entrepreneurs should follow the example of Ratan Tata and praised the determination of the Tata Group, citing the example of electricity supply in Mumbai. Under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, India has become the fifth-largest economy in the world and is progressing rapidly towards becoming the third-largest. Youth should take advantage of platforms such as ‘Skill India’ and ‘PM-DAKSH’. Receiving a degree does not mark the end of education; one must remain prepared for lifelong learning. The competitive world outside the campus is challenging, but with confidence, success can be achieved.
*Universities must foster innovation and experimentation: Governor Jishnu Dev Varma*
Governor Jishnu Dev Varma stated that Prime Minister Narendra Modi has emphasized three important aspects—skilling, reskilling, and upskilling—and the university has the capacity to contribute in all these areas. Modern universities must nurture innovation and experimentation. Education should also instill character and a sense of responsibility towards sustainable progress. Obtaining a degree is not the end of education; rather, it is the beginning of a lifelong learning journey. The world that students are entering is highly dynamic and constantly evolving. Current geopolitical developments, including conflicts in the Middle East, are already affecting the global economy and livelihoods, which may impact many jobs. In such a scenario, it is essential to encourage students to acquire diverse and relevant skills.
He also noted that the first convocation is being held at Raj Bhavan, where HSNC University had earlier conferred an honorary Doctor of Letters (D.Litt.) upon Ratan Tata. Establishing and nurturing a university requires vision, commitment, and collective effort. Until the 18th century, India was a global leader in trade and commerce due to its rich tradition of skills and craftsmanship. To regain that position, efforts towards skill development and reskilling of the workforce must be intensified.
AI Living Lab’ initiative to train students in solving real time industry problems: Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis
Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis stated that merely having a young population is not sufficient; it must be supported by skills to realize the demographic dividend. Providing quality education, healthcare, and training in modern technologies such as AI and manufacturing is essential. Recognizing this, Prime Minister Narendra Modi launched the ‘Skill India’ movement, in which Maharashtra has taken a lead.
He further stated that earlier capital was important, but now investors are attracted to places where skilled human resources are available. To address the challenges posed by Artificial Intelligence, it is necessary to build a skilled workforce. Human resources must be developed in accordance with changing times, and skill training must be updated regularly as per industry requirements. The university’s ‘AI Living Lab’ initiative, which provides practical training to students in solving real industry problems, is commendable.
Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis further stated that the university has provided AI training to 10,000 women with the support of Microsoft. The job market is rapidly evolving, and skill universities must be more flexible than traditional universities. As India’s economy moves from fourth to third position globally, there is a need not only for graduates but for skill-trained youth to sustain this growth. Maharashtra accounts for 31% of the total foreign direct investment in India. If Maharashtra were a separate country, it would rank among the top 30 economies in the world. MoUs worth ₹30 lakh crore have recently been signed at the Davos summit. He expressed confidence that Maharashtra will surpass the economies of the UAE and Singapore in the coming years and highlighted that the state leads in startups and unicorns.
*Respect for students’ hard work and future aspirations: Dep. Chief Minister Sunetra Ajit Pawar*
Deputy Chief Minister Sunetra Ajit Pawar stated that the convocation ceremony of Ratan Tata Maharashtra State Skill University is historic and recognizes the hard work and aspirations of students. Maharashtra is the growth engine of the country, and the state government is working in coordination with the central government. She informed that the ITI at Aundh has been upgraded to a modern and employment-oriented institution. Through initiatives such as the Mahima scheme and the establishment of Navdisha centres at 36 locations, a new phase of skill development has begun across the state. The Chief Minister’s Mahafund scheme will provide new opportunities for talented youth and open avenues for entrepreneurship. Students must adapt themselves to new technologies and uphold ethical values and social responsibility. She congratulated all graduates and extended her best wishes for their future.
*Skill development is the backbone of Atmanirbhar Bharat: Minister Mangal Prabhat Lodha*
Minister Mangal Prabhat Lodha stated that under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and the guidance of Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, efforts are being made to build a workforce capable of handling future technologies. In ancient times, India was known as the “Golden Bird,” not only because of agriculture but also due to the strength of skills in every household. Each family contributed to micro-enterprises, and there is a need to revive this tradition. Maharashtra has strong law and order and administration, and further progress in the skill sector is being emphasized.
He stated that the first convocation being held in the presence of the Vice President is a matter of pride for students and will strengthen their careers. The university, established in the name of the late Ratan Tata, will preserve not only technical education but also values. Referring to the exhibition gallery set up in memory of the late Jayant Sahasrabuddhe, he said that individuals contributing to skill development, innovation, and employment generation have been recognized. The best ITIs in tribal, women, and general categories have also been honored. He expressed confidence that skill development will brighten the future of youth and position Maharashtra at the forefront globally.
*Over 25,000 students awarded skill-based certificates and degrees: Vice-Chancellor Dr. Apurva Palkar*
Vice-Chancellor Dr. Apurva Palkar stated in her introductory remarks that more than 25,000 students have received certificates and degrees at the university’s first convocation ceremony, marking a milestone in its journey. The university has trained 10,000 women in Artificial Intelligence, setting a new benchmark. The Home Department has awarded a ₹17 crore project to the university for the development of Big Data Analytics and a Face Recognition System. M.Tech and B.Tech students are working on this project along with faculty members.
The university has signed agreements with global institutions such as Rubika (France), East Tennessee State University (USA), and Leipzig University (Germany). Around 700 students are being trained in the German language to enhance overseas employability. Under the incubation centre, 25 students are receiving ₹25,000 per month for one year as “Amrit Funding” for their startups. Additionally, pre-incubation centres have been established in 160 colleges across the state. Under the RAMP project, approximately 10,000 women, students, and youth have been trained for employment in MSMEs across several districts.
*Six gold medalists and Industrial Training Institutes felicitated*
Gold medals were awarded to Murtaza Arihusein Kadiyani (Cloud Computing), Avinash Vasant Borse (Cyber Security), Aravan Abhay Upadhyay (Digital Marketing), N. Vaishnavi, Shweta P., and Rekha Ashish Salunkhe (Diploma in Medical Laboratory Technology). Industrial Training Institutes including Tarabai Modak Women’s ITI (Latur), Raje Vishweshwarrao Aatram ITI (Gadchiroli), and Deogiri ITI (Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar) were felicitated.
Inauguration of Jayant Sahasrabuddhe Skill-based Exhibition
On the occasion of the convocation ceremony of Ratan Tata Maharashtra State Skill University, an exhibition showcasing initiatives supporting ITIs across the state was organized. The exhibition was inaugurated by dignitaries. It also included initiatives of beneficiaries under the Punyashlok Ahilyadevi Holkar Women Startups Scheme. A total of 12 stalls were set up, featuring the university’s initiatives and leading industry players, including Toyota Kirloskar Motor, Hindustan Aeronautics Limited, Swades Foundation of Ronnie Screwvala, and the Rural Development Trust of Sri Sri Ravi Shankar.
