Himachal Pradesh introduced Apprenticeship Embedded Degree Programmes (AEDPs) in 16 government degree colleges from the 2026–27 academic session, becoming the third state in India to do so, Education Minister Rohit Thakur said at Shoolini University on Saturday.
Addressing the Second Convocation of Shoolini University’s Centre for Distance and Online Education (CDOE) as Chief Guest, Thakur said the programmes would strengthen industry-linked learning in the state. A total of 1,047 students received their degrees at the ceremony.
The Education Minister said Himachal Pradesh had recorded a Gross Enrolment Ratio (GER) of 44 per cent in higher education, placing it among the better-performing states in the country. The state government had filled 500 Assistant Professor posts in government colleges and would fill another 500 soon. Around 90 per cent of the vacant Principal posts in government colleges had also been filled, he added.
Rohit Thakur congratulated the graduates and appreciated Shoolini University’s work in making UGC-entitled higher education accessible through distance and online modes. He said technology had helped institutions in Himachal Pradesh overcome geographical barriers and reach learners across India and abroad.
Rohit Thakur encouraged the graduates to use their knowledge responsibly, remain open to innovation, and follow ethical practices in their professional lives. Referring to the growing influence of artificial intelligence, he advised them to adapt to emerging technologies without losing curiosity, creativity, judgement, empathy and integrity.
The university conferred 1,010 MBA degrees, 19 BBA degrees, 16 MA English Literature degrees and two B Com (Hons) degrees. Students with outstanding academic records received University Medals and Merit Certificates.
Vinod Sultanpuri, MLA, Kasauli, attended the convocation as Guest of Honour, while Suneeta Singh, Director of Higher Education, Himachal Pradesh, was the Distinguished Guest. 
Sultanpuri spoke about Himachal Pradesh’s progress in education and expressed confidence that the state would soon secure the top position nationally. He congratulated the graduates, faculty and teachers and wished the students success in their careers.
Chancellor Prof Prem Kumar Khosla congratulated the graduates and encouraged them to retain the values of knowledge, curiosity, responsibility and integrity. He urged them to use their education for professional growth and to contribute to society.
Pro Chancellor Prof Vishal Anand said the graduates were entering a world in which artificial intelligence and emerging technologies were rapidly changing the nature of work. He said continuous learning would be essential for staying relevant. Referring to graduates who had completed their programmes while managing jobs, businesses and family responsibilities, he said their achievement reflected determination and discipline.
Vice Chancellor Prof Atul Khosla urged the graduates to innovate and create new possibilities. He also asked them to stay away from drugs and give due importance to happiness, purpose and personal well-being alongside professional success.
The ceremony began with an academic procession led by Registrar Prof Sunil Puri, followed by the traditional lamp-lighting and Saraswati Vandana. After Prof Amar Raj Singh, Director, CDOE, presented the Centre Report, the Chancellor formally declared the convocation open.
Before receiving their degrees, the graduates took an academic oath administered by Vice Chancellor Prof Atul Khosla. They also participated in a Nasha Mukti pledge, affirming their commitment to a drug-free life and responsible citizenship.
In his concluding remarks, Prof Ashish Khosla, President, Innovation and AI, congratulated the graduates and said the university remained committed to combining innovation, technology, employability and lifelong learning in its academic programmes.
Shoolini University Trustee Satish Anand; Saroj Khosla, President, Shoolini University; Prof Nishtha Anand, Trustee and Dean, Faculty of Media and Liberal Arts; Avnee Khosla, Trustee and Vice-President; and Prof Ashoo Khosla, Trustee and Chief Learning Officer, attended the ceremony along with senior university officials, faculty members, staff, parents and graduating students.
12 September 2026