MUJ Online’s 5th Convocation: A Milestone, A Moment, A Movement

There are moments that feel bigger than time itself – where years of effort, commitment, and belief come together in a single stride forward. One such moment was MUJ’s 5^th Convocation for its online learners. On 7^th February 2025, Manipal University Jaipur came alive as online learners, eyes sparkling with anticipation, walked in confidence towards their campus. For some, it was years of disciplined learning and quiet perseverance, for others, it was a dare to dream. But for all, it was a decision to keep moving forward no matter how demanding the journey became.

Walking Forward, Head Held High

As the winter sun settled gently over MUJ casting warming hues, learners dressed in academic regalia walked into the convocation hall not just as graduates, but as individuals shaped by their learning journey. Each step forward reflected growth – personal, professional, and intellectual.

This year marked a historic milestone for MUJ Online, with 9,043 learners graduating – the highest number ever at an MUJ convocation. Of these, 1,531 graduates attended the ceremony in person, while the remaining learners were awarded their degrees in absentia. The graduating cohort reflected the true breadth of online education, with the youngest graduate aged 21 and the oldest graduate aged 76. Degrees were conferred across undergraduate programs such as BBA, BCA, and BCom, as well as postgraduate programs including MBA, MCA, MCom, and MAJMC, forming a multidisciplinary academic cohort.

The diversity of the cohort extended far beyond age. Learners represented 1,500+ cities, spanning 28 states and 6 Union Territories across India, along with learners from 27 countries worldwide. From metropolitan centres to smaller towns, the convocation stood as a reminder that geography is no longer a barrier to quality higher education.

Data That Reflects Impact

Beyond the milestone numbers, the graduating cohort reflects how online education continues to shape professional growth and continuous learning:

• Over 2000 learners entered the program with prior work experience, bringing real-world perspectives into the learning environment.
• 1,374 learners, nearly 15% of the graduating cohort, were actively pursuing upskilling opportunities underscoring a strong focus on continuous skill development.
• Top companies employing MUJ Online’s experienced learners include Accenture, TCS, Amazon, Infosys, and Cognizant, highlighting the industry relevance and employability of the programs.

A Ceremony Steeped in Tradition and Purpose

Against a backdrop that blended academic tradition with the grandeur of Rajasthan, the convocation commenced with an academic procession and the National Anthem, setting the tone for the day. In keeping with tradition, permission was sought from the Hon’ble Governor to formally open the convocation, marking the official beginning of the ceremony. The ceremony was further enriched by the presence of distinguished dignitaries and thought leaders.

Dr. N N Sharma, President, MUJ, presented a comprehensive overview of the university and its expanding digital education ecosystem, highlighting MUJ’s commitment to delivering world-class education through the Centre for Distance and Online Education (CDOE).

“MUJ Online offers research guidance to its online learners and encourages them to publish in Scopus-indexed journals through dedicated incentives. We also provide one-week campus immersion program via Bloomberg Market Concepts and Computer-Integrated Tech, which makes us stand out from other universities providing campus experience for online learners.” – Dr. N N Sharma

Shri Haribhau Bagde, Hon’ble Governor of Rajasthan and the Chief Guest of the ceremony, in his convocation address, shared insights on the need to integrate India’s traditional education system with contemporary educational practices. He noted that the National Education Policy places special focus on preserving and promoting Indian languages and heritage, as well as encouraging education in the mother tongue. He further emphasized the role of education in eradicating poverty and highlighted the responsibility of youth in nation-building to make India a developed nation by 2047.

“Online education is the need of the hour and essential for lifelong learning, as it enables learners to access education anytime, anywhere, while also making it more affordable and accessible.” – Shri Haribhau Bagde

Mr. Ambrish Sinha, CEO, UNext Learning, also graced the occasion as a Guest of Honour.

Their words struck a chord with the graduates, reaffirming the significance of the milestone they had achieved. The ceremony was also presided over by Dr. Amit Soni, Registrar, Dr. Nitu Bhatnagar, Provost, Dr. Mallikarjuna Gadapa, Director, CDOE, Dr. Dasari Nagaraju, CoE, and other senior leadership.

Graduates Take the Oath        

One of the most meaningful moments of the ceremony was the administration of the oath – a collective pledge by the graduates to uphold integrity, ethics, and responsibility as they step into the next phase of their professional and personal journeys.

Conferring of Degrees

The most awaited moment of the ceremony followed: the conferring of degrees. As names were called and graduates stepped forward, the hall echoed with applause that reverberated with pride – from the graduates themselves, and from families who had travelled from far and wide to be part of the moment.

Learner Voices: Stories That Define Journey

Beyond the degrees and milestones are stories that reflect determination, growth, and ambition.

These voices bring to life what MUJ Online enables – quality education that fits into real lives and evolving careers.

Degrees in Hand, Futures Unfolding

As the ceremony concluded with a vote of thanks and the National Anthem, graduates walked out with degrees in hand and clarity of purpose. The 5^th Convocation marked not an end, but the beginning of new chapters.

MUJ Online continues to empower learners with future-ready skills, flexible learning pathways, and a strong academic foundation. As this graduating cohort steps into new opportunities and roles, they carry forward a commitment to growth, learning, and impact.

Congratulations to the Class of 2026. Your future awaits.