Dr Vivek Saoji, Vice-Chancellor of Bharati Vidyapeeth, emphasised the need for universities to be prepared to face future challenges, such as the growing influence of artificial intelligence, rapid technological advancements, a changing educational environment, global competition and the increasing pace of obsolescence.

He expressed these views during a programme held at the central office of Bharati Vidyapeeth to commemorate the 81st birth anniversary of its founder Dr Patangrao Kadam. Dr Saoji was speaking at the launch of a special issue of Vichar Bharati dedicated to Dr Kadam. Also present were Registrar G Jayakumar, Editor of Vichar Bharati Prof Milind Joshi and Vasantrao Mane.

Dr Saoji described Dr Kadam as a visionary who turned all his dreams into reality with determination and ambition. He credited Dr Kadam for consistently elevating Bharati Vidyapeeth's trajectory of progress.

Prof Milind Joshi highlighted Dr Kadam's personal experience with the struggles faced by students from rural and underprivileged backgrounds. He said Dr Kadam worked tirelessly to ensure that the next generation would not have to endure similar hardships. His vision of bringing education to the grassroots led to the establishment of Bharati Vidyapeeth, which, over the past six decades, has made invaluable contributions to India's educational, healthcare, social, cultural and economic development.

Prof Joshi further praised Dr Kadam not only for building institutions but also for shaping individuals.

Dr Appasaheb Patil anchored the programme. Faculty, administrative staff, and non-teaching staff from Bharati Vidyapeeth's Dhankawadi and Erandwane campuses paid their respects to Dr Kadam during the event.