SOA celebrates 75th Republic Day

Bhubaneswar: Siksha ‘O’ Anusandhan (SOA) celebrated the 75th Republic Day on Friday with the chancellor Prof (Dr) Amit Banerjee unfurling the national flag and urging the students to contribute to the process of nation building.

“The citizens of India, particularly the youth, have a vital role to play in this process and you have the power to shape it,” Prof (Dr) Banerjee said after inspecting the parade.

Pointing out that nation building was not a one-time event, he said it was not the sole responsibility of the government but the collective duty of all citizens. “It is not a burden but a privilege,” he said.

Also read: 75th Republic Day celebrations at ECoR

Prof Pradipta Kumar Nanda, vice-chancellor of SOA, deans of different institutions, directors, students and officials were present at the ceremony held at the university’s stadium.

Students of different institutions under SOA, a contingent each of NCC and NSS volunteers, Institute of Higher Secondary Education, a Plus Two science college under SOA and security wings participated in the parade.

The contingent of Plus Two science college, the Institute of Business and Computer Studies (IBCS) and the NSS were awarded the first, second and third prize in the parade respectively.

The programme ended with a colourful cultural extravaganza featuring students.
Prof (Dr) Banerjee also addressed the students of other countries studying in SOA who had made India their home away from home.

Vice-chancellor Prof. Nanda unfurled the tricolor at the university office where he spoke about India’s achievements during the past year.

SOA’ pro-vice chancellor Prof Sitikantha Mishra, director of University Outreach Program Prof Nachieketa Sharma and joint registrars Bhisma Charan Das and Sasanka Mishra were present.