RONO HILLS, 2 May: Rajiv Gandhi University (RGU) secured the third prize in the poster-making competition at the 100th AIU Annual General Body Meet & National Conference of Vice Chancellors.

The event was hosted by Dr DY Patil Vidyapeeth, Pune, recently, under the aegis of the Association of Indian Universities (AIU).

The conference witnessed participation of around 400 universities across the country, making the recognition highly competitive and nationally significant.

“The recognition marks a significant milestone for RGU, reflecting its consistent commitment to innovation, inclusivity, and academic excellence. The university presented a compelling portfolio titled ‘RGU for nation-building’, highlighting 10 transformative best practices that align institutional growth with national priorities,” the university stated in a release.

The presentation was led by RGU Vice-Chancellor (i/c) Prof SK Nayak, who articulated the university’s vision of holistic development rooted in regional strengths and national aspirations. His presentation emphasised how RGU, as a premier central university in the Northeast, is contributing meaningfully to knowledge creation, community engagement, and policy-relevant research.

Among the showcased initiatives, documentation of endangered languages stood out as a pioneering effort aimed at preserving the rich linguistic diversity of Arunachal Pradesh. “This initiative underscores the university’s commitment to safeguarding intangible cultural heritage and promoting the traditions of lesser-known tribal communities,” the release said.

“Complementing this was the university’s sustained effort towards the promotion of indigenous cultures, ensuring that academic inquiry remains grounded in local realities,” it added.

Another notable practice is the knowledge partnership with the state government and national think tanks, which has enabled evidence-based policy making and strengthened institutional collaboration, it said.

“Through its Rural Incubation Centre, RGU is fostering indigenous entrepreneurship, empowering rural youths and promoting sustainable livelihoods aligned with local resources and skills,” the release said.

RGU’s emphasis on inclusivity was reflected in its clean, green, and divyangjan-friendly campus initiative, which integrates environmental sustainability with universal accessibility. The university’s proactive mentorship programmes for first-generation learners and single girl children have further enhanced equitable access to higher education, ensuring that no segment of society is left behind, it said.

The effective implementation of the National Education Policy 2020 at RGU was also a key highlight. The university has adopted a multidisciplinary and flexible academic framework, integrating skill-based learning, Indian knowledge systems, and digital pedagogy to prepare students for emerging global challenges.

“Institutional mechanisms, such as the Centre for Development Studies and a wide range of outreach and social responsibility activities demonstrate RGU’s deep engagement with community development and social transformation,” it said.

Further strengthening its governance framework, RGU has institutionalised a transparency audit system, ensuring accountability and efficiency in administrative processes. “The introduction of a fixed date for convocation is another best practice that reflects the university’s commitment to academic discipline and timely recognition of student achievements,” the release added.

This national recognition builds upon RGU’s earlier achievement in 2025, when it was adjudged first among universities in the Eastern Zone Vice Chancellors’ Conference, organised by the AIU.

Speaking on the occasion, Prof Nayak reiterated RGU’s commitment to excellence, and noted that the recognition serves as motivation to further strengthen the university’s initiatives in teaching, research, and community engagement.

“The achievement is a testament to the collective efforts of faculty members, students, and administrative staff of RGU, whose dedication continues to position the university as a leading institution in the Northeast,” the release said.