Pune: Dr. D. Y. Patil Vidyapeeth, Pimpri, Pune, a premier deemed-to-be University recognised nationally for its academic and research excellence, hosted its Teachers’ Felicitation Ceremony to honor excellence in teaching at the university.
The ceremony was graced by Dr. Soumya Swaminathan, Chairperson of the M. S. Swaminathan Research Foundation, Principal Advisor to the National Tuberculosis Elimination Programme (NTEP), Ministry of Health & Family Welfare, Government of India, Former Chief Scientist of the World Health Organization (WHO), and former Director General of the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR), who presided as the Chief Guest.
Also present at the event were Dr. N. J. Pawar, Vice-Chancellor, Dr. D. Y. Patil Vidyapeeth, Pimpri, Pune; Dr. Smita Jadhav, Pro-Vice-Chancellor, Dr. D. Y. Patil Vidyapeeth, Pimpri, Pune; and Dr. Yashraj Patil, Trustee and Treasurer, Dr. D. Y. Patil Vidyapeeth Society, Pune. Dr. P. D. Patil, Chancellor, Dr. D. Y. Patil Vidyapeeth, Pimpri, Pune; Dr. Bhagyashree P. Patil, Pro-Chancellor, Dr. D. Y. Patil Vidyapeeth, Pimpri, Pune; and Dr. Somnath Patil, Pro-Chancellor, Dr. D. Y. Patil Dnyan Prasad University, Pune, expressed heartfelt gratitude to the chief guest, awardees, faculty members and students.
On the occasion of Teacher’s Day, several awards were presented to honor outstanding contributions by faculty, including:
• Research Award was conferred upon Dr. Swati Sharma
• Dr. P. D. Patil Young Researcher Award was received by Dr. Sahjid Mukhida
• Consistent Performance Award was presented to Dr. Soumya Basu
• Innovative Teaching Award was awarded to Dr. Bhushan R. Bhagat
Additionally, 41 faculty members were felicitated with Appreciation Awards and certificates for receiving State, National and International recognitions.
Dr. Soumya Swaminathan, said “I was truly impressed by the college infrastructure and the well-equipped skill labs. As educators, we all recognize that while technology can assist in teaching, human beings cannot be replaced. No computer or machine can express passion, compassion or empathy nor can they truly motivate and inspire students. They can present facts and even simulate creativity, but human creativity and innovation are deeply rooted in real-world experience and emotion. It is the human mind that seeks to solve complex problems, driven by values, ethics and a sense of purpose. Principles and values can only be instilled by teachers. That is why educators remain irreplaceable. Only individuals with vision and commitment can build great institutions. I am pleased to see the strong focus on research at DPU and was delighted to interact with researchers actively engaged in meaningful projects. It’s impressive to see collaborations with other universities and the establishment of dedicated research un
Dr. Yashraj Patil, Trustee and Treasurer, Dr. D. Y. Patil Vidyapeeth Society, Pune, said “Teachers are the custodians of knowledge and the torchbearers of progress. At Dr. D. Y. Patil Vidyapeeth, Pimpri, Pune, we take immense pride in honouring their dedication and innovation. This celebration is not only a tribute to their tireless efforts but also a reaffirmation of our commitment to create an environment where education, research and compassion continue to grow.”
While addressing the audience, Dr. Smita Jadhav, Pro-Vice-Chancellor, Dr. D. Y. Patil Vidyapeeth, Pimpri, Pune, said “It is often said that knowledge is important, but it is imagination that truly changes the world. Who better than our teachers to nurture imagination? Teachers do not merely impart facts they ignite a fire in young minds and build dreams. That is why we honour them today. Our own tradition reveres the Guru as creators, preservers, and removers of ignorance. India has always placed the highest respect on educators and it is this same respect we hope the next generation will carry forward. Our teachers wear many hats – they are mothers burning the midnight oil, guardians and mentors shaping ambition, and sometimes like Google itself – with endless patience and answers. With wisdom and compassion, they touch every life and every life they touch becomes a future they help shape.”
During the program, the book “At the Wheel of Research”, based on the life and work of Dr. Soumya Swaminathan, was also released in the presence of distinguished guests.
Dr. J.S. Bhawalkar, Registrar; Dr. AN Suryakar, Director Administration, Quality Assurance, Faculty Development & Research; Dr. P Vatsalaswamy, Director Academics; Dr. Rekha Arcot, Dean, Dr. D. Y. Patil Medical College; and Dr. Brig SK Roy Chowdhary, Dean, Dental College – dignitaries from Dr. D. Y. Patil Vidyapeeth, Pimpri, Pune were present on the dais.
The event was a grand celebration of academic excellence and dedicated service in the field of education.
