NALSAR University Hosts Special Convocation Ceremony for 2024 Open & Distance Learning Graduates
(Judicial Quest News Network)
Hyderabad, November 16, 2024 – The Directorate of Distance Education at NALSAR University of Law held a distinguished Special Convocation ceremony for the award of degrees and advanced diplomas to eligible candidates of the 2024 batch from its Open and Distance Learning (ODL) programmes. The event took place at the Justice City Campus of NALSAR University, with the Honourable Sri Justice Alok Aradhe, Chief Justice of the High Court for the State of Telangana and Chancellor of NALSAR, presiding over the ceremony and delivering the convocation address.
The ceremony, which began at 11:00 AM and concluded at 12:45 PM, saw 1,255 degrees and diplomas awarded across various academic disciplines. A total of 287 graduates were present to receive their awards, marking the culmination of years of dedication and hard work in an unconventional learning mode.
NALSAR’s Contribution to Legal Education and Social Justice
In his address, Justice Alok Aradhe commended NALSAR for its longstanding commitment to providing high-quality legal education that upholds constitutionalism, rule of law, and justice. He particularly emphasized NALSAR’s focus on social justice, with a special emphasis on marginalized communities, an integral part of the University’s mission. Reflecting on the evolution of distance learning since the introduction of the New Education Policy in 1989, Justice Aradhe noted that NALSAR has been a pioneer in integrating technology with education, offering flexible learning opportunities for students across the country.
Justice Aradhe highlighted the university’s successful collaborations with prominent knowledge hubs such as TRUTH LABS, TAXMAN, and EBC LEARNING, which have facilitated the launch of cutting-edge programmes like MA in Criminal and Forensic Sciences, MA in Taxation, Corporate Law, and Humanitarian Law. These collaborations have positioned NALSAR at the forefront of delivering innovative legal education tailored to the needs of the modern world.
He also praised NALSAR’s commitment to gender inclusivity, noting that women make up nearly 50% of the student enrolment in the Open and Distance Learning programmes, a testament to the university’s efforts to promote access to education for all.
Launch of Landmark Initiatives in Education
Justice Aradhe made special mention of NALSAR’s recent initiative to launch a basic course on the Indian Constitution in Telugu, offered through the Centre for Distance and Online Education. The course, which includes 32 engaging videos covering panel discussions, interviews, case studies, and practical sessions, aims to make foundational legal knowledge more accessible to the people of Telangana. Justice Aradhe expressed his hope that this course would inspire similar initiatives in the future, furthering the university’s commitment to public service and social change.
Graduates Advised to Contribute to Society
Acknowledging the challenging yet rewarding journey undertaken by the graduates, Justice Aradhe encouraged them to apply their knowledge for the greater good of society. He urged them to evolve into responsible citizens who can contribute meaningfully to public life, leveraging their academic experiences to address societal challenges, especially in the fields of law, justice, and governance.
Recognition of Outstanding Achievements
The ceremony also included the presentation of three gold medals to the top performers of the 2024 batch, recognizing their exceptional academic achievements:
- Mr. Vikram Singh – Gold Medal in M.A. in Aviation Law & Air Transport Management
- Ms. Akshara – Gold Medal in M.A. in Criminal Law & Forensic Science
- Mr. Tarun Joshi – Gold Medal in Advanced Diploma in Criminal Law
These awards were a testament to the hard work and academic excellence demonstrated by these graduates throughout their studies.
Degrees and Diplomas Awarded
The convocation witnessed the conferment of degrees and diplomas across a wide range of specialized disciplines. The degrees awarded included seven Master’s programmes, including:
- M.A. in Aviation Law & Air Transport Management
- M.A. in Security & Defence Laws
- M.A. in Space & Telecommunication Laws
- M.A. in Maritime Laws
- M.A. in Criminal Law & Forensic Science
- M.A. in International Taxation
- M.A. in Animal Protection Laws
In addition, 18 Advanced Diploma programmes were awarded in areas such as Cyber Laws, Corporate Taxation, Family Dispute Resolution, Maritime Laws, Intellectual Property Rights, Labour Laws, and Alternative Dispute Resolution. The diversity of these programmes reflects NALSAR’s commitment to addressing emerging challenges in law and providing a comprehensive education in niche areas of legal expertise.
Additionally, two Advanced Post-Graduate Diplomas were awarded in Industrial Security, Law and Management.
A Vision for the Future
In his welcome address, Prof. Krishna Deva Rao, Vice Chancellor of NALSAR, lauded the graduates for their perseverance in completing their degrees through Open and Distance Learning. He emphasized that NALSAR’s ODL programmes were designed not only to impart academic knowledge but also to foster skills and competencies that can be directly applied in professional and public service roles.
The convocation procession was led by Prof. N. Vasanthi, Registrar (I/c), NALSAR University of Law, who took part in the ceremonial proceedings along with other distinguished faculty and administrative staff.
Conclusion
The Special Convocation at NALSAR University was a celebration of academic achievement, innovation, and the transformative power of distance learning. With a rich history of contributions to legal education, NALSAR continues to shape the future of law and governance in India through its innovative programmes, dedicated faculty, and dynamic collaborations with leading institutions. As the graduates step into the world, they carry forward the mission of justice, equality, and social change, in line with the university’s guiding principles.
