Padma Shri awardee and renowned innovator Dr Uddhab Bharali on Thursday encouraged students to develop practical skills, think independently and embrace self-reliance while addressing a skill development programme at Tinsukia College in Assam.
The programme, aimed at nurturing students’ talents, promoting innovative thinking and preparing young people for future opportunities, was organised by the Oil India OBC and MOBC Employees Association (OIOBC&MOBCEA) in collaboration with the Career Counselling, Training and Placement Cell and the Internal Quality Assurance Cell (IQAC) of Tinsukia College.
The event was held at the college’s Library Conference Hall, where Dr Bharali attended as the resource person and interacted with students.
Addressing the gathering, Dr Bharali highlighted the importance of self-confidence, original thinking, hard work and practical knowledge in shaping one’s future. He encouraged students to develop their abilities, explore innovative ideas and focus on acquiring skills that could help them become self-reliant.
During the programme, association General Secretary Surendra Gogoi spoke about Dr Bharali’s life, achievements and contributions to science and technology, describing his journey as an inspiration for the younger generation.
Gogoi referred to Bharali’s journey from Lakhimpur and his efforts to develop affordable technological solutions despite several challenges. He highlighted that the innovator had developed more than 140 machines and devices designed to strengthen the rural economy, simplify everyday activities and improve the lives of people, particularly persons with disabilities.
He also referred to the national and international recognition received by Dr Bharali, including the Padma Shri award and recognition from NASA.
The programme began with a welcome address by Tinsukia College Principal Dr Bhairav Borgohain, who welcomed the participants and highlighted the importance of initiatives that connect students with experienced professionals and innovators.
Nitu Hazarika, vice-president of the association and Deputy General Manager of Oil India, explained the objectives and significance of the programme on behalf of the association’s president, Dr Shyamal Barua, who is also Chief General Manager in Oil India’s Human Resources Department.
The initiative sought to encourage students to look beyond conventional academic learning and recognise the importance of practical knowledge, creativity and skill development in building their careers.
Through the interaction with Dr Bharali, students were given an opportunity to learn from the experiences of an innovator whose work has focused on developing affordable technologies to address practical challenges in society.
