Bhubaneswar: The Utkal University’s department of Public Administration organised an inspiring alumni connect event under its ‘Adminos@30’, marking three decades of the establishment of the department. Notable alums of the 1996 first batch interacted with students, scholars and faculty members and shared their stories, spirit of learning and senses of nostalgia at the department recently.
Alumna of the 1996 batch and current Head of the Department (HoD) Dr. Pratima Sarangi welcomed the alums and urged students to uphold the department’s legacy. Pratap Chandra Beura, Senior OAS and ADM, Khordha district advised students to combine discipline with public service values, while Dr. Bibhudutta Mohapatra, Vice President, Aditya Birla Group highlighted communication skills and adaptability in modern careers.
Proud homemaker Smt. Sabita Mohapatra spoke on balancing personal and professional responsibilities. Teacher Puspita Behuria encouraged lifelong learning and narrated the essence of inclusivity while dispensing any profession. Dr. Sarita Mishra, working with Indian Postal Services stressed dedication and integrity in everyday life.
Rajesh Kumar Malik, working as a Manager with Indian Railways motivated students to embrace leadership, motivation and time bound discipline based over his professional stories. Debashis Rath working with Jindal Steel underlined the importance of industry exposure and practical knowledge. Homemaker Itishree Pati advised students to value relationships and resilience.
The alumni members also shared memories and challenges of studying during the 1996 millennium transition period and motivated students to face future challenges with confidence. Adoption of technology with open arms while not losing human values of emotional quotient and empathy were the major takeaways of the alumni connect initiative. Assistant Professor of the department Dr. Hemant Kumar Dash coordinated the event and proposed vote of thanks.