Governor S. Abdul Nazeer confers an honorary doctorate on KI Varaprasad Reddy, founder and chairman of Shantha Biotechnics, on Thursday at the XII. assembly of JNTU in Kakinada. | Photo credit: HANDOUT
Shantha Biotechnics Founder and Padma Bhushan Awardee Dr. KI Vara Prasad Reddy on Thursday advocated the central government’s re-introduction of tax incentives for industry to boost science and technology research.
Governor of Andhra Pradesh and Chancellor of Jawaharlal Nehru Technological University (JNTU-Kakinada) S. Abdul Nazeer conferred Honorary Doctorate (Honoris Causa) on Dr. Arun Jaitley. Vara Prasad Reddy during the 12th JNTU University Convocation held at the JNTU-Kakinada campus on Thursday.
Dr. Vara Prasad Reddy in his convocation address said; “Academic institutions should examine the future needs of the country and prepare students accordingly. Society is growing faster than expected, and the emergence of artificial intelligence is a clear example of this. Students graduating today would become ‘Rip Van Winkle’ if the current curriculum is not revised. The teaching staff must constantly update itself.”
Dr. Vara Prasad Reddy appealed to the universities to actively engage with industry and showcase their research capabilities for research collaboration.
Dr. Vara Prasad Reddy also announced a donation of ₹1 million to JNTU-Kakinada to start a course on entrepreneurship and asked the alumni of the institution to work with JNTU-Kakinada to promote research and establish a research center for future research endeavours.
In his address to the students, Governor S. Abdul Nazeer said that the institution must stimulate curiosity among the students and help them understand the complex challenges.
“Industry collaboration, a dynamic and blended learning ecosystem are vital to equip graduates with skills, adaptability and understanding for a global perspective. Internships, field visits and community engagement are invaluable in shaping responsible citizens who understand technological advancement and social responsibility,” said Mr. Abdul Nazeer.
JNTU Kakinada Vice Chancellor Prof. CSRK Prasad presented the initiatives, academic achievements and development of the university. As many as 48 candidates received PH.D degree and 39 received Foundation Prizes and Gold Medals during the convocation.
Published – 02 Apr 2026 21:16 IST
