ABHIJIT KALITA, GUWAHATI,Oct 26: Girijananda Chowdhury University (GCU) commemorated its second foundation day on Saturday, marking another significant milestone in the institution’s rich history.
The entire day was marked by lively celebrations, reflecting on GCU’s remarkable journey so far and setting the stage for a promising future.
GCU’s roots can be traced back to the establishment of Girijananda Chowdhury Institute of Management and Technology (GIMT) in 2006, followed by the inception of the Girijananda Chowdhury Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences (GIPS) in 2007, the first private-sector pharmaceutical institute in Northeast India.
These institutions, under the patronage of the Shrimanta Shankar Academy (SSA) Society, paved the way for the present university and its thriving academic community.
Barely two years old, Girijananda Chowdhury University today holds the distinction of actively partnering with major academic institutions around the world through a series of MoUs, including with Mari State University, Russia, and University of South Africa (UNISA).
The foundation day event commenced with a welcome address by president of SSAS, Jasoda Ranjan Das, extending warm greetings to all attendees. Prof. Nani Gopal Mahanta, noted political scientist and Vice Chancellor of Gauhati University, graced the occasion as chief guest. The gathering was further honoured by the presence of Chancellor Prof. Jayanta Deka and Vice-Chancellor Prof. Kandarpa Das, who eloquently highlighted the institution’s academic advancements, research initiatives and contributions to the larger community.
The celebrations began in the morning with a flag-hoisting ceremony, complete with an NCC salute, after which the cleaning staff of the university were felicitated, in accordance with GCU’s commitment to social justice and equity. This was followed by a dazzling cultural rally where diverse cultural groups, communities and tribes showcased their rich heritage, along with a social message awareness rally organized by National Service Scheme (NSS) volunteers.
Subsequently, an award ceremony was held where the most productive researchers as well as select employees received awards for their excellent performance throughout the year.
Along with the above activities, the university witnessed a colourful cultural programme celebrating the immense diversity of Assam which lasted throughout the day, followed by a cricket match between the university faculty and students. In addition, an anti-malarial laboratory was inaugurated on the university premises in the evening. The day ended with a screening of the Oscar-winning documentary The Elephant Whisperers, a meditative exploration of the relationship between indigenous tribes and wildlife. The Foundation Day events underscored the institution’s commitment to academic excellence, community engagement, and cultural diversity, embodying the spirit of GCU.
