Renowned academician Dr. Shivaraj has assumed charge as the new Vice-Chancellor of Rajiv Gandhi University (RGU), the premier Central University in Arunachal Pradesh. Dr. Shivaraj, a retired Professor of Chemistry at Osmania University, Hyderabad, took office on Thursday.
Following his assumption of office, Dr. Shivaraj called on Arunachal Pradesh Governor Lt Gen K.T. Parnaik (Retd), who is the Chief Rector of the university. The Governor congratulated Dr. Shivaraj on his new role and expressed confidence that under his leadership, Rajiv Gandhi University would further strengthen its position as a centre of excellence in higher education, innovation, and knowledge creation.
The Governor highlighted the unique academic and research opportunities available in Arunachal Pradesh and advised Dr. Shivaraj to encourage research focusing on the state’s rich biodiversity, indigenous traditions, natural resources, environmental conservation, and socio-economic development. He emphasized that such research would contribute to academic advancement and support sustainable development and informed policymaking in the region.
Lt Gen Parnaik (Retd) also stressed the importance of professionalism, discipline, punctuality, and commitment to scholarly pursuits, saying these values must remain the defining characteristics of the institution. He emphasized the need for a conducive environment for intellectual growth through the active participation of faculty members, administrative personnel, researchers, and students alike.
Dr. Shivaraj assured the Chief Rector of his commitment to strengthening academic excellence, promoting meaningful and socially relevant research, improving institutional governance, and fostering a vibrant, inclusive, and intellectually stimulating campus culture. He also expressed his intention to build upon the university’s existing achievements and work closely with faculty members, students, staff, and other stakeholders to further elevate Rajiv Gandhi University as a leading centre of higher learning, innovation, and societal engagement in the Northeast.
Former Vice-Chancellor in-charge Prof. S.K. Nayak and Registrar N.T. Rikam were also present during the meeting at Lok Bhavan.
