Chennai: As many as 16,000 students graduated at the ninth convocation ceremony of Parul University, Vadodara, held recently in the presence of several dignitaries from public life, sports and the judiciary.

Students from various disciplines received their degrees at the ceremony, which was attended by parents and family members. A total of 104 students who secured top ranks were awarded gold medals, while 44 students received merit certificates. Three alumni were honoured with entrepreneurship medals and 135 candidates were conferred doctoral degrees.

Addressing the gathering, Parul University President Devanshu advised the graduating students to be prepared to face future challenges with confidence, adaptability and a strong sense of purpose. He highlighted the role of education in nation-building and urged students to apply their knowledge for societal development.

The convocation was attended by Union Ministers of State for Home Affairs Nityanand Rai and Bandi Sanjay Kumar, Gujarat Deputy Chief Minister Harsh Sanghavi, senior journalist Rajat Sharma, Olympic boxer M C Mary Kom, Justice Vineeta Singh and tennis player Sania Mirza.

The dignitaries shared insights from their professional journeys, encouraging students to pursue excellence and resilience in their chosen fields.

As a special gesture, the guests were honoured with Khadi shawls woven by 16,000 artisans, reflecting the university's emphasis on sustainability and traditional craftsmanship.