Prerna Diwas celebrated with cultural festivities at Shoolini University
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Solan, February 18
Faculty, staff and students of Shoolini University celebrated Prerna Diwas, marking the birthday of Chancellor Prof. P.K. Khosla with a series of significant events on campus.
A key highlight of the celebrations was the inauguration of the DST-PURSE-supported Bio Innovation Centre lab by Prof. P.K. Khosla, along with Trustees Satish Anand and Ashok Anand, Pro Chancellor Vishal Anand and Visiting Professor Vivek Atray. Shoolini University is the first institution in Himachal Pradesh to receive support under the Promotion of University Research and Scientific Excellence (PURSE) scheme, awarded to institutions excelling in research. The newly inaugurated Bio Innovation Centre is equipped with state-of-the-art instruments worth ₹6 crores, enabling advanced research in health sciences, cell biology, biotechnology, and food and nutrition. The total infrastructure investment significantly enhances the university’s research capabilities and national contributions.
The Chief Guest for the occasion was Mr. Lalit Kumar, Member of the Himachal Pradesh Private Educational Institutions Regulatory Commission.
In his address, Mr. Lalit Kumar underscored the significance of inspiration and the need for individuals to seek motivation within themselves. He emphasised collaboration between private universities and regulatory bodies for academic excellence and advocated for the introduction of vocational courses to enhance employability opportunities for students.
Adding to the academic significance of the event, an illustrated book titled “Winged Wonders,” compiled by Prof. P.K. Khosla and Dr. Nidhi Sharma, Assistant Professor at the School of Agriculture, was launched. The book showcases the rich avian diversity and reflects the authors’ deep appreciation for birdlife.
The celebrations also included cultural programme. Addressing the gathering, Prof. Ashish Khosla emphasised that Prerna Diwas is a tribute to the inspiration that Prof. Khosla instills in everyone, reinforcing the power of knowledge and wisdom.
Prof. P.K. Khosla spoke about the inception of Shoolini University, underscoring that quality education, combined with dedication and hard work, makes anything achievable. He reiterated the university’s commitment to excellence in teaching, research, and technology, aiming to position Shoolini University among the world’s best institutions.
Chief Learning Officer Ashoo Khosla highlighted the importance of technology in education, emphasising that laptops have become an essential learning tool in today’s digital era. To support this vision, laptops were presented to deserving students as part of the university’s initiative.
The event concluded with a vote of thanks by Mrs. Ashoo Khosla, who expressed gratitude to all dignitaries, the Director of Operations team, and participants.
The celebrations culminated with a traditional ‘Dham,’ a feast organised for students, faculty, and staff, promoting a sense of community and togetherness on campus.
The event witnessed the presence of several guests, including Vice-Chancellor Prof. Atul Khosla, President of Shoolini University and SILB Mrs. Saroj Khosla, Pro-Chancellor Mr. Vishal Anand, Trustee Mr. Satish Anand and Ashok Anand, President of Marketing and Innovation Prof. Ashish Khosla, Chief Learning Officer Mrs. Ashoo Khosla, Vice-President Mrs. Avnee Khosla, Registrar Dr. Sunil Puri, Director of Operations Brig. S.D. Mehta, Former Vice-Chancellor of Panjab University Prof. Ranbir Chander Sobti, Former IAS Vivek Atray, and Dean of Planning Dr. J.M. Julka.
Born on February 18, 1940, in Samrala, Ludhiana, Prof. Khosla excelled academically, earning prestigious fellowships for his Master’s and Doctorate. His pioneering research led him to serve as the Vice-Chancellor of HP Krishi Vishwavidyalaya, Palampur, and as a Biotechnology Advisor to the Himachal Pradesh government. Recognised as the Father of Forestry Education in India, he played a pivotal role in integrating forestry into agricultural education. After three decades of government service, he retired in 2004 but remained committed to advancing education and research.
