— University confers honorary Doctor of Literature degrees upon Indian Coast Guard Director General Paramesh Sivamani and journalist Navika Kumar
GANDHINAGAR, GUJARAT | 31st OCTOBER 2026 | A total of 1,380 students were awarded their degrees at the seventh convocation ceremony of Karnavati University, Gandhinagar, on Saturday. The ceremony also saw the conferment of honorary Doctor of Literature (D. Litt.) degrees upon Paramesh Sivamani, AVSM, PTM, TM, the Director General of the Indian Coast Guard, and prominent journalist Ms. Navika Kumar. The ceremony brought together graduating students, their parents, faculty members, university management and other distinguished guests.
Of the 1,380 graduates, 785 students received their degrees in person. They included 515 from the Unitedworld Institute of Design (UID), 126 from the Unitedworld Institute of Management (UIM), 53 from the Unitedworld Institute of Technology (UIT), 49 from the Unitedworld School of Law (UWSL), 28 from the Unitedworld School of Liberal Arts and Mass Communication (USLM), nine from Karnavati School of Dentistry (KSD) and five from Karnavati School of Research (KSR). A total of 29 gold medals were also awarded on the occasion.
Addressing the graduating students, Director General Paramesh Sivamani said, “A university is a place where ideas are cultivated, questioned and transformed into knowledge. But the true meaning of education lies in how we use that knowledge and the responsibilities we assume. As you graduate today, remember that your degree marks an academic achievement, while tomorrow will test your character. Integrity, courage and compassion are values that matter in every profession. The world today offers extraordinary opportunities, but also unprecedented complexity. I urge you to remain curious, continue learning and be prepared to adapt. Technology can enhance human capability, but it cannot replace judgement, conscience or courage.”
“I am honoured to announce a collaboration between Karnavati University, the Coast Guard and the Coast Guard Welfare and Wellness Association providing scholarships and admission support for the wards of serving and retired Coast Guard personnel. This reflects a shared recognition that those who serve the nation should know their families are valued and supported,” he added.
In his address, Ritesh Hada, President of Karnavati University, said, “Learning is a continuous process, and graduation is only one milestone in that journey. While you graduate from Karnavati University today, life will continue to test you in different ways. We wish you the very best as you take on these challenges.”
“Disruption, particularly in technology, is a constant feature of the world we live in. It is important to keep expanding your skillsets, adapt to change and equip yourselves to stay ahead. As you move forward, remember that each of us also has a responsibility towards the nation. I hope you carry a strong sense of national pride and contribute to the country’s growth and progress,” he said.
In her remarks, Ms. Navika Kumar urged the students to remain disciplined, persevere through challenges and use periods of waiting for success to develop new ideas and capabilities.
“Success is not like instant coffee. It takes hard work, perseverance and the ability to reinvent yourself. It is important it is to keep learning, unlearning and updating yourself to stay relevant. Do not rest on yesterday’s laurels. Every day brings a new challenge and an opportunity to create something. And when success takes time, use that waiting period constructively. Keep working, keep learning and keep creating. The journey you build brick by brick will make you proud.”
The conferment of the honorary degree upon Director General Paramesh Sivamani in recognition of his distinguished leadership, dedicated service and invaluable contribution to safeguarding India’s maritime and coastal security. The honorary degree conferred upon Ms. Navika Kumar recognises her significant contributions to journalism.
Karnavati University offers programmes across disciplines including design, dentistry, business management, law, liberal arts, mass communication, engineering and technology. The university aims to provide an interdisciplinary learning environment that combines academic rigour with practical exposure, enabling students to develop the knowledge and skills required to navigate an ever-changing world.
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