Panjab University celebrates 143 years of existence, service to society

Panjab University today celebrated its foundation day, marking 143 years of its heritage and dedicated service to society.

Vice Chancellor Prof Renu Vig hoisted the university flag in the presence of teachers, staff members and NSS volunteers during a function organised by the PU National Service Scheme (NSS) at the Vice-Chancellor’s Secretariat.

On the occasion, Prof Vig administered a pledge to all participants, reaffirming the university community’s commitment to academic excellence, integrity and social responsibility.

The VC recalled that the university was established in October 1947, in continuation of and as a successor to the University of the Punjab, which was founded at Lahore on this day in 1882. She said, “Today, we are remembering our roots and celebrating its rich heritage and contribution of 143 years.”

Reflecting upon the journey of the university as one of the oldest centres of higher learning in India, she remarked that the PU stood as a beacon of knowledge, innovation and service to society. Referring to the university’s recent performance, she said the PU was consistently improving its position in all national and international rankings.

On the occasion of foundation day, a welcome ceremony, ‘Aarambh’, was organised for the new students at Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel Boys Hostel No. 4. Swachhata Diwas was organised by the Department of Library and Information Science as part of its ongoing cleanliness and awareness campaign. Faculty members, office staff and students participated in the event.

The Advanced Functional Material Technologies Private Limited (AFMTech), a faculty-led deep-tech startup incubated at the university, has received Startup India recognition from the Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT).

Established in August this year under the Faculty-Led Startup Policy of Panjab University, the AFMTech aims to develop indigenous capabilities in advanced functional materials and thin-film technologies. The company focuses on strategic applications in semiconductors, spintronics, quantum devices and energy systems.