GD Goenka University Hosts 11th Convocation, Former President Ram Nath Kovind Graces Ceremony as Chief Guest

GD Goenka University hosted its 11th Convocation Ceremony on January 20, 2026, at its Sohna Road campus in Gurugram, marking a significant academic milestone. The university conferred doctoral, postgraduate, undergraduate and diploma degrees to graduating students from across disciplines of the last academic session, celebrating their academic achievements and transition into professional life.

The convocation was graced by Shri Ram Nath Kovind, Former President of India, as the Chief Guest, along with Maj. Gen. (Retd.) G. D. Bakshi and Dr. Raj Nehru, Officer on Special Duty to the Chief Minister of Haryana, as Guests of Honour. The ceremony witnessed the presence of the university’s senior leadership, including Mrs. Renu Goenka, Chancellor, GD Goenka University and Vice Chairperson, GD Goenka Group; Mr. Nipun Goenka, Pro-Chancellor and Managing Director, GD Goenka Group; Prof. (Dr.) Dinesh Shenoy, Vice-Chancellor; Prof. (Dr.) Dhirendra Singh Parihar, members of the Governing Body, faculty members, students, parents, and other distinguished guests.

A key highlight of the ceremony was the conferment of an Honorary Doctorate (Honoris Causa) upon Mr. Radha Krishna Kanodia, in recognition of his exceptional contributions to spiritual literature, the promotion of universal human values, and the preservation of India’s sacred knowledge traditions. The event was further marked by the presentation of the prestigious LEED Platinum Certification, reflecting the university’s strong commitment to sustainability and environmentally responsible infrastructure.

Presenting the annual report, Prof. (Dr.) Dinesh Shenoy, Vice-Chancellor, highlighted the university’s academic progress and consistent pursuit of excellence. Addressing the graduating students, he stated,

“Convocation marks a new beginning for our graduates as they step into a new world. I am sure they will lead with integrity and use their knowledge to create meaningful impact for society and for our nation.”

The university also awarded the Gopi Ram Goenka Medals to meritorious students across various programmes in recognition of outstanding academic performance and excellence. A solemn pledge taken by the degree recipients reaffirmed their commitment to applying knowledge responsibly, ethically, and in service of society.

Addressing the gathering, Shri Ram Nath Kovind reflected on the institution’s visionary origins, saying,

“Every institution of learning begins as an idea before it becomes a campus. Three decades ago, in the quiet rural hinterlands of Sohna, Shri Anjani Kumar Goenka envisioned something bold, a place where young minds would gather, question and grow. From that single act of vision has emerged a university that, in a short span of time, has earned national regard and global attention.”

Speaking on the occasion, Mr. Nipun Goenka, Pro-Chancellor and Managing Director, GD Goenka Group, said,

“The 11th Convocation is a testament to GD Goenka University’s continuous focus on building an institution that matches global benchmarks in higher education. Our emphasis has been on strengthening academic quality, infrastructure and industry integration to ensure students receive an education that is relevant to the future. This milestone reinforces our commitment to contributing meaningfully to India’s evolving knowledge economy.”

With its strong focus on academic excellence, sustainability, ethical leadership, and industry-aligned education, GD Goenka University continues to strengthen its position as a nationally respected institution shaping future leaders for India and the global knowledge ecosystem.