From the Desk of the Head
![]() |
Prof. Jagdip Sonawane releasing Memorabilia 2024-25 |
Click here to view the Memorabilia 2025
As we reflect upon the academic year 2024-25, it fills me
with immense pride and satisfaction to acknowledge the remarkable achievements
of our students at the Postgraduate Department of English. This year has been
truly exceptional, marking unprecedented success in national and state-level
competitive examinations, along with commendable accomplishments in sports,
arts, and cultural activities.
One of the most noteworthy highlights of this year has been
the outstanding performance of our students in the UGC-NTA NET and Gujarat SET
examinations. More than a dozen students have qualified for GSET, demonstrating
their academic rigor and commitment to excellence. In a historic first for our
department, four students cleared the GSET while still pursuing their M.A.
studies, setting an inspiring precedent for future aspirants. Moreover, two of
our students, Dhatri Parmar and Aakash Chavda, successfully cleared the NET
examination, with Aakash achieving the prestigious Junior Research Fellowship
(JRF), a feat never before accomplished in our department's history. Their
success serves as a testament to their dedication and the unwavering support
provided by our faculty.
Beyond academics, our department has witnessed a resurgence
of enthusiasm in various co-curricular and extracurricular domains. The sports
committee was uniquely active this year, with our students excelling in
intercollegiate competitions. A few of them, Srushti Chaudhari and Dhatri
Parmar, even secured places in the university team, representing our
institution at national-level inter-university tournaments in sports such as
cricket and squash. This participation underscores the well-rounded development
that our department aims to foster among its students.
The Art and Creativity Committee organized several unique
events that allowed students to express themselves beyond conventional academic
pursuits. The Library Committee, with its Annual Reading Day and guided visits
to various libraries and bookshops in Bhavnagar, successfully promoted the
culture of reading and intellectual curiosity. The Gardening Committee
meticulously planned and executed their activities on designated days,
reinforcing the importance of sustainable environmental practices. Additionally,
the Celebration Committee curated a series of events, including a
well-organized study tour, enriching the overall learning experience of our
students. The Film Committee also organized to watch the ‘Emergency’ film in the
theatre. All other departmental committees also worked diligently to ensure
that the English Department remained a vibrant hub of curricular,
co-curricular, and extracurricular engagements.
Another remarkable achievement was our students'
participation in Youth Festival and Excel Expression events, where they not
only showcased their talents but also secured awards and recognition. These
victories reinforce the importance of holistic education—an education that
extends beyond textbooks and classrooms, preparing students for real-world
challenges.
In the times we live in, it has become imperative that our
students, the future leaders of society, are groomed into individuals who
possess not just knowledge but also the ability to perform exceptionally in any
role or task assigned to them. It is often observed that students of the arts
are deeply engaged in theoretical discussions and excel in 'preaching,' but
when faced with the challenge of 'practice' or 'performance,' they struggle to
deliver. At the Department of English, we have consciously strived to bridge
this gap. By involving our students in various activities, we aim to instill in
them the ability to think critically, act decisively, and adapt seamlessly to
dynamic environments. Whether it is through research, literary discussions,
community outreach, or competitive platforms, we encourage our students to
develop practical skills that complement their academic knowledge.
Education, in its truest sense, is not merely about
accumulating degrees; it is about shaping individuals who can contribute
meaningfully to society. Our students, through their relentless pursuit of
excellence, have demonstrated that they are ready to take on the challenges
that lie ahead. As we bid farewell to the graduating batch, we extend our
heartfelt best wishes for their future endeavors. We are confident that they
are well-equipped to carve out a significant space for themselves in the world,
irrespective of the career paths they choose. May they continue to inspire,
innovate, and make a difference in every sphere they enter.
With best wishes,
Prof. Dilip Barad
Head, Department of EnglishMaharaja Krishnakumarsinhji
Bhavnagar University