Former Arunachal Pradesh chief minister Gegong Apang (left) and Professor Saket Kushwaha during the event. Image: Northeast Now

Former chief minister of Arunachal Pradesh, Gegong Apang, on Monday declared open the mega two-day foundation anniversary celebration of Rajiv Gandhi University (RGU) at the university campus.

Addressing a large gathering, Apang, who was instrumental in establishing the university in its present location at Rono Hills, shared his experiences and recalled the circumstances leading to the establishment of the varsity.

Apang also spoke of the obstacles that he came across before the foundation stone for the university was finally laid in his presence, 37 years ago.

Also read: Arunachal: RGU celebrates 37th foundation day

The former chief minister further urged the RGU fraternity to play a vital role in making Arunachal Pradesh a better State.

He also praised the present vice chancellor Professor Saket Kushwaha who is actively taking a personal interest in all round development of the university.

“The vice chancellor has a magnetic charm which will help the university in the longer run,” he said.

Professor Kushwaha, in his address spoke about the need of inculcating values and zeal while performing one’s duties and finding better solutions to the problem in hand.

“The foundation day celebration is the right time to introspect and find out the right route and method to follow,” the vice chancellor said.

He also extended his gratitude to the Apang for his support and attitude which helped in fulfilling the dreams and aspirations of students of the State.

Former vice chancellor Professor Tamo Mibang and senior faculty members Professor S K Singh and Professor Nani Bath also recalled the contributions of Apang towards the establishment of RGU.

Professor Amitava Mitra spoke about the importance of celebrating the foundation day while university Registrar Professor Tomo Riba extended the vote of thanks.

Earlier, the celebrations got underway with the inauguration of the newly constructed building of department of physics which was followed by several other programmes.

A marathon was also organized on the day to mark the occasion, in which Bamo Tanang and Sorang Yumi stood first in the men’s and women’s category respectively.

The veteran category saw Dr Kago Gambo take the first position.

The celebrations on Tuesday would be graced by Governor and RGU’s chief rector B D Mishra who would also give away the vice chancellor’s award for Best Employee of the year.

Damien Lepcha is Northeast Now Correspondent in Arunachal Pradesh. He can be reached at: [email protected]