Varsity's first convocation was lacklustre affair

It was devoid of any enthusiasm and excitement as both the chancellor and pro-chancellor did not attend the convocation. While the governor and chancellor cancelled his visit due to ill-health and bad weather, the pro-chancellor, Minister for Higher Education Aravind Limbavali did not come as he was attending training programme at Suttur mutt.

Of the four personalities selected for honorary doctorates, only Sarojini Mahishi was present in person, while the doctorate awarded to late Gangubai Hanagal posthumously was received by her grandson.

In absentia
The other two, technocrat Kiran Mazumdar Shaw and UGC Chairman Sukhdeo Thorat did not attend the award function but were awarded doctorate in absentia. Dr Sarojini Mahishi delivered the convocation speech. Six in arts faculty, 13 in social science, two in science and technology and seven in education were awarded gold medals.