Jaipur, 1 August: Manipal University Jaipur witnessed a significant transition in its leadership as it bid farewell to the outgoing president Prof. G K Prabhu and welcomed the new President Prof. Niti Nipun Sharma. The felicitation ceremony held on 1st August 2024 at Smt. Vasanti R Pai auditorium in the MUJ campus.

The event began with the welcome address by the Pro-President Cmde. (Dr.) Jawahar Mal Jangir, who greeted all dignitaries along with the academic and administrative staff. In his address Dr. Jangir highlighted the remarkable growth and success achieved by Manipal University Jaipur under the able leadership of outgoing president Dr. G K Prabhu. Dr. Jangir also extended a warm welcome to the new President Prof. N N Sharma, expressing hope that the university will reach new heights in academic excellence under his guidance.  On this occasion an audio-visual film was screened highlighting the journey of Prof. G K Prabhu in Manipal group in general and MUJ in particular.

The ceremony was graced by the Chairman of MUJ Mr. S. Vaitheeswaran. He delivered the felicitation address, praised the tenure of Prof. G K Prabhu, his multifaceted personality and visionary leadership which has led to significant developments in MUJ. At the same time, he also welcomed the new President Prof. N N Sharma and conveyed his best wishes to both leaders.  

The group Chief Human Resources Officer of Manipal Medical and Educational Group Mr. Nishith K Mohanty also graced occasion. The Head HR of MUJ Mr. Sridhar M S read the citation about Prof. G K Prabhu. All the dignitaries felicitated Dr. G K Prabhu and his wife Ms. Malini Prabhu with shawl, citation and traditional Rajasthani safa. In his reply to the felicitation Dr. Prabhu thanked the Manipal group authorities, teachers and students of Manipal University Jaipur. He urged everyone to be happy and contended in life to prosper in life. He also welcomed the new President and his successor Prof. N N Sharma.

The Chairperson of MUJ Mr. S. Vaitheeswaran and other dignitaries extended floral welcome to Prof. N N Sharma and his wife Ms. Manju Sharma.

Prof. N N Sharma thanked the Manipal group for giving him this highest responsibility to lead the Manipal University Jaipur as President. In his acceptance speech he said that “It is a homecoming”. He emphasised on quality research, sustainable growth and constructive contribution to the society. He also encouraged all the faculty members and staff for prioritising ethical practices and consistent endeavour to excel in life. He has cited some examples from his life experience to motivate the members of Manipal University Jaipur. Prof. Sharma has been an integral part of Manipal University Jaipur and Manipal group since 2015. Formerly he was the Pro-President of MUJ and Manipal Academy of Higher Education, Manipal, Karnataka.  

Registrar MUJ Dr. Nitu Bhatnagar presented the vote of thanks at the end of the ceremony. She thanked both the academic leaders for their outstanding contribution in making Manipal University Jaipur a sought-after destination for all knowledge seekers.  All the deans of faculty, Directors of Schools, functional directors, Heads of the departments, faculty members and staff members took part in the ceremony.