Convocation at DU

R C Vashisht has been surrounded by a crowd of media persons the whole day. And why not, he is special. At the age of 64 years, when the rest of his contemporaries sit back and relax, he is the oldest student to receive his Ph D in Sanskrit from Delhi University (DU). His research thesis was on the ''Skandapuran'' and he managed to finish it in 2004.A retired official from the Central Defence library, Vashisht has always been motivated to study and finish his degree. ''''But, now it''s time to rest and enjoy my retirement,'''' says this grandfather of three.
Vashisht is one of the several students who were awarded their degrees at DU''s 82nd convocation ceremony, which was held recently at the newly- renovated Old Viceregal Lodge. The ceremony was attended by students from all over the country along with their families amidst tight security. Priyanka Naib, topped the University in MA English. A student of Lady Shri Ram College, she attributed her success to the teacher in her college and the well-stocked library. A prize-receiving candidate, she was disappointed that her mother was not allowed inside the hall because of strict protocol. Nevertheless, high in spirits, she plans to pursue a career in media.
Kashyun Gulati is luckier; her parents have been allowed to watch her receive her bachelor''s degree in elementary education. A student from Gargi College, Gulati is teaching in Blue-Bells Schools and plans to pursue a Master''s degree in Scoiology.
Languages saw a lot of participation at the ceremony. Mohd Mohsin, was awarded his Ph D in Urdu. He completed his research work on ''Iqbaliyat'' and plans on teaching Urdu at the University level. A native of Bihar, Mohsin complemented DU and said that the university provides a healthy environment and are most cooperative to the students.
Prof C N R Rao, proposed the convocation address and spoke on ''Science and Scholarship''.