Blend technology with human values, expert tells graduates

Graduates must go beyond earning degrees and must develop the ability to create future technologies, adapt to rapid changes, and uphold human values, said P. Nagabhushan, former director, IIIT Allahabad.

Delivering the third graduation day address at Vidyavardhaka College of Engineering here on Saturday, he said that completing examinations and obtaining a degree was necessary, but insufficient to become a competent engineer, technocrat and responsible human being. He stressed the importance of continuous learning amid rapid advancements in artificial intelligence (AI) and data engineering.

While encouraging graduates to pursue postgraduate studies, he advised those with family responsibilities to prioritise financial stability. Mr. Nagabhushan cautioned students against becoming overly dependent on social approval and external appearances. Urging them to remain authentic, he said individuals should avoid living behind a “social mask” shaped by others’ expectations.

Highlighting the responsible use of AI, he said technology should enhance human intelligence and creativity rather than replace independent thinking. He urged graduates to preserve their individuality, emotional intelligence, integrity and ethical values.

He warned against excessive busyness, which could prevent individuals from thinking strategically and pursuing meaningful goals.

Emphasising simplicity, politeness, and lawful conduct, he explained the word “SIMPLE” as Strategic approach, Integrated intelligence, Mature moves, Politeness, Law-abiding conduct and Elegance. He called upon graduates to combine their technological expertise with creativity, compassion and integrity to contribute meaningfully to society and the nation.

Sadashive Gowda, principal, VVCE, briefed the gathering about VVCE’s various facilities, achievements and placements.

A total of 941 engineering students graduated in various disciplines this year. Sanjana Srinivas emerged as the college topper and secured the first rank in Electronics and Communication Engineering (ECE).

The branch-wise toppers of the BE programmes at VVCE were Sanjana Srinivas in ECE; Mohit C. in Mechanical; Tejaswini Raj B. in Computer Science (Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning); Sowmith Prajwal in Computer Science; Aisiri B.P. in Information Science and Engineering; Bhavana U. in Electrical and Electronics Engineering; and Arpitha S. in Civil Engineering.

P. Vishwanath, secretary of VVS, Gundappa Gowda, president, VVS, Shrishaila Ramannavar, treasurer, VVS, Shobha Shankar, vice-principal and Sudev L.J., controller of examinations, were also present.