Former President Kovind Inaugurates New Student Housing at Ashoka University

Former President Ram Nath Kovind visited Ashoka University in the Delhi-NCR region to formally open a new student housing complex on the institution's North Campus, underscoring the university's expansion efforts as it continues to establish itself among India's premier educational establishments.

The inauguration ceremony drew participation from key figures at the institution, including Ashish Dhawan, Founding Chairperson of the Board of Trustees; Rudrangshu Mukherjee, Chancellor; and Somak Raychaudhury, Vice-Chancellor, alongside members of the senior leadership and academic staff. The occasion also featured the planting of Rudraksha trees by Smt. Savita Kovind and Shri Ram Nath Kovind, followed by a guided tour of the campus that highlighted Ashoka's research capabilities and digital infrastructure, including the HDFC Library and the Archives of Contemporary India.

In his remarks to the assembled audience, the former President praised the university's standing. "I have visited several educational institutions across the country, and I must say that Ashoka University stands out among the finest for its vision and world-class infrastructure," he observed. He emphasised the dual importance of expanding educational access while cultivating ethical values among students. "As India works towards expanding access to quality education, it is equally important to nurture strong values and a deep sense of responsibility among the younger generation. I see these values strongly reflected in the leadership and ethos of this institution, and I am confident that, with continued efforts, Ashoka University will play a significant role in shaping not only capable individuals, but also responsible citizens for the future."

The newly completed housing facility represents part of the university's broader strategy to develop a fully residential campus environment capable of serving its student population, which now exceeds 3,000 individuals. Since its establishment twelve years ago, Ashoka University has gained international recognition for its commitment to academic rigour, cross-disciplinary approaches to learning, research initiatives, and leadership training programmes. The institution achieved a notable milestone in the previous year when it secured a place in the QS World University Rankings 2026.

Vice-Chancellor Somak Raychaudhury characterised the visit as a significant moment for the institution. "It is a great honour for Ashoka University to have Shri Ram Nath Kovind ji inaugurate our newest student housing facility. His visit marks an important moment in the University's journey as we continue to strengthen our campus infrastructure and create a vibrant residential environment that supports learning, collaboration, and holistic student development," he stated.

Ashish Dhawan, speaking as Founding Chairperson, reflected on the institution's trajectory. "Ashoka University has grown from an ambitious idea into a thriving institution that is redefining higher education in India. As the University continues to expand, we look forward to welcoming many more students in the coming years and further strengthening our vision of building a world-class residential institution that nurtures academic excellence, interdisciplinary learning, leadership and community living," he said.

During the visit, the former President engaged with senior faculty members and departmental deans to discuss the role private universities can play in delivering comprehensive academic experiences. The discussions centred on how such institutions can combine rigorous educational programmes with modern facilities that support advanced research and innovation.