Rono Hills, Feb 17: The 22nd edition of UNIFEST at Rajiv Gandhi University (RGU) was inaugurated on Monday, marking the start of a three-day celebration under the theme “University with Diversity.”
The event began with a flag hoisting ceremony by Lok Sabha MP from Arunachal East, Tapir Gao, followed by the lighting of the Olympic torch carried by international Wushu player and RGU student Yorna Rosni.
The opening ceremony featured a mega dance performance, highlighting the cultural richness of the state’s diverse tribes, alongside performances of Nepalese and Assamese Bihu dances, emphasizing the fusion of regional traditions.
Addressing the gathering, Gao commended RGU’s contribution to the vision of ‘Viksit Bharat’ and encouraged students to shift their focus from being job seekers to job providers. He also assured support for the university’s academic expansion, including the introduction of Artificial Intelligence (AI) as a core area of study.
Yachuli MLA Toko Tatung urged students to strive for excellence, stating, “You are the light of this place, the region, the state, and the country.”
RGU vice-chancellor professor SK Nayak reiterated the significance of the theme "University with Diversity," highlighting the institution's role in bringing students together from across the country. He emphasized the National Education Policy’s vision for holistic development from early education to higher studies and said that UNIFEST aligns with that goal.
Registrar Dr NT Rikam stated that RGU is emerging as one of the leading universities in the country. He described UNIFEST as a platform to showcase students' talents in sports, literature, and cultural activities, urging them to participate with sincerity and sportsmanship.
A march past by RGU’s NCC unit and four student houses, named after Arunachal’s unsung heroes—Tagi Raja, Matmur Jamoh, Langha Pooja, and Khunjing Wangham, was also part of the ceremony. House captains led an oath-taking ceremony, administered by assistant director of physical education, Dr Yuvaraj, emphasizing commitment and unity among students.
With multiple competitions and cultural programs lined up, the festival is set to offer a dynamic platform for students to engage, compete, and celebrate diversity over the next few days.