Jagdalpur, Chhattisgarh, India: Chhattisgarh Governor and Chancellor Biswabhusan Harichandan on Tuesday said higher education plays an important role in the overall development of the youth. It provides advanced knowledge, skills and opportunities for personal and professional development.

He was addressing the fourth convocation ceremony of Shaheed Mahendra Karma University Bastar Jagdalpur organized in the university campus.

Gold medals were awarded to 93 students, PhD and an honorary degree were awarded to 43 students at the convocation.

Harichandan said through higher education the youth acquire critical thinking abilities, creativity and moral values, which prepare them to face complex challenges. It opens doors to better career prospects, contributes to economic growth and develops strong leaders and active citizens in their communities. A literate youth represents the future of any society, state or country.

He said that in areas like Bastar, the Government of Chhattisgarh especially expects the youth to actively participate in the socio-economic development of their communities while maintaining the values of peace, harmony and progress. They are encouraged to engage in education and skills development initiatives to enhance employability and contribute to regional development.

Harichandan said that with access to modern tools, platforms and resources, today's youth have the potential to use technology and innovation to tackle pressing challenges such as poverty, inequality, climate change and health care.

Vice Chancellor Professor Manoj Kumar Srivastava presented the progress report of the university. Professor Ram Kumar Kakani, Director of Indian Institute of Management Raipur, delivered the convocation address.

The Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai said the first priority of the government is the development of Bastar and Surguja. Tribal area also has to be taken forward in the race of development.

Sai said that it is pleasant that daughters are studying in Bastar. There has been a positive change regarding education here. The state government and the central government have jointly given a grant of Rs 100 crore under the Meru scheme of the Prime Minister's National Higher Education Campaign. The grant will usher in a new era of higher education in Bastar.

He said that the university has been given approval to start 33 new courses in 20 new departments.