– Mohammed Atherullah Shareef
Hyderabad: Maulana Azad National Urdu University (MANUU), a central university dedicated to promoting the Urdu language and higher education, continues to be a symbol of academic diversity and national integration. This was eloquently articulated by Anjani Kumar, IPS, Director General of Prisons and Correctional Services, Andhra Pradesh, during the University’s fresher’s orientation programme held recently on its Hyderabad campus.
Describing MANUU as a “mini India,” Anjani Kumar highlighted the university’s unique cultural and regional representation. “Students from Kerala to Kashmir study here. It is a microcosm of the country where diverse minds gather to learn and grow,” he said. This rich diversity, according to him, makes the university a fertile ground for intellectual and personal development.
Kumar noted that in today’s interconnected world, students are no longer competing within national boundaries. “The competition has become global, and hence, upgrading skills and keeping pace with technological changes is essential,” he emphasized.
Quoting the downfall of once-thriving companies like Nokia, Kumar cautioned students about the dangers of stagnation. “If we do not update our skills and knowledge, we risk becoming irrelevant,” he said. Encouraging students to remain resolute and disciplined, he said that learning from one’s mistakes is a sure way to achieve excellence.
He urged students to take full advantage of the digital revolution, pointing out that the current age offers unprecedented access to information and resources. “Make use of the facilities around you, especially in areas like Information Technology, which is transforming every aspect of our lives,” Kumar advised.
Presiding over the event, Vice Chancellor Prof. Syed Ainul Hasan emphasized the broader purpose of university education. He urged students to go beyond academics and participate in extracurricular activities. “Sports, cultural programmes, and library visits play a crucial role in shaping your personality and preparing you for the global stage,” he said.
Prof. Hasan reminded students that MANUU stands not only for academic excellence but also for character building, civic responsibility, and national service. He reiterated the importance of aligning personal aspirations with the university’s vision of inclusive education and social upliftment.
Registrar Prof. Ishtiaq Ahmed and Director of Admissions M. Vanaja also addressed the gathering. Both highlighted the importance of time management, dedication, and the need to embrace campus life fully. They encouraged students to interact freely with faculty, explore research opportunities, and stay curious in their academic journey.
The orientation event at MANUU set a hopeful and inspiring tone for the new academic year. With guidance from experienced educators and public servants, the students were not only welcomed into a prestigious institution but were also challenged to rise above conventional learning and embrace a future of innovation, discipline, and cultural inclusivity.
