Students urged to dream big, prepare for a self-reliant India - The HinduPublished - November 07, 2026 11:17 pm IST - VIJAYAWADAStudents should dare to dream big, think independently and pursue ambitious goals to drive innovation and contribute to the vision of a self-reliant India, said Prof. Ramesh Srikonda, Director of the School of Planning and Architecture, Vijayawada.Addressing the Freshers’ Day celebrations at Dr. RVR NRI Institute of Technology (Deemed to be University), he emphasised that bold aspirations lead to new ideas and innovative outcomes. He urged students to focus on holistic development rather than limiting their ambitions to obtaining academic degrees.The celebrations, organised to welcome newly admitted first-year students, witnessed the participation of over 2,000 students, who showcased their talents through colourful singing and dancing performances.Prof. M.L.N. Rao, Chancellor and Vice-Chancellor of Rajiv Gandhi University of Knowledge Technologies (RGUKT-AP), said emerging technologies such as Artificial Intelligence, Machine Learning and Quantum Technologies would drive major transformations over the next five to 10 years. He encouraged students to prepare themselves to contribute to the visions of Swarna Andhra Pradesh 2047 and Viksit Bharat 2047.NRI University Chairman and Chancellor Dr. Ravi Venkata Rao said the institution’s four-year academic programme aimed at shaping students into responsible, capable individuals equipped to overcome challenges and contribute meaningfully to society.Vice-Chancellor Dr. K.R.S. Sambasiva Rao urged students to make effective use of the university’s teaching and learning facilities and continuously upgrade their skills to become industry-ready professionals.Organising convener and Dean D. Suneetha, CEO, Pro-Vice-Chancellors, Registrar, Deans, Heads of Departments, faculty members and other dignitaries attended the celebrations.Published - November 07, 2026 11:17 pm ISTSign in to unlock member-only benefits!Access 10 free stories every monthSave stories to read laterAccess to comment on every storySign-up/manage your newsletter subscriptions with a single clickGet notified by email for early access to discounts & offers on our products${ ind + 1 } ${ device }Last active - ${ la }