CHITWAN: The fifth convocation ceremony of the Agriculture and Forestry University (AFU) has concluded in Chitwan, graduating a total of 2,193 students across bachelor’s, master’s, and PhD levels.

Addressing the ceremony in his capacity as Pro-Chancellor, Minister for Education and Sports Sasmit Pokharel said the country’s future depends on the development of agriculture, adding that the government is making continuous efforts to advance the sector.

He urged graduates to view their academic degrees not just as certificates but as responsibilities toward the nation, society, and future generations. He expressed confidence that the skills, research capacity, and professional competence gained from the university would help usher in a new phase in agriculture, livestock, and natural resource management.

Highlighting agriculture as the foundation of economic transformation, he said scientific advancement, technology, and skilled human resources are key drivers of agricultural progress.

Chief guest Vice-Chancellor of the University of Ladakh Professor Saket Kushwaha highlighted shared cultural and knowledge traditions between Nepal and India, describing education as a guiding force in human life.

Vice-Chancellor of Agriculture and Forestry University Professor Hom Bahadur Basnet urged graduates to become job creators rather than job seekers.

According to Registrar Professor Subir Singh, of the total graduates, 1,836 completed bachelor’s degrees, 327 master’s degrees, and 30 were awarded PhDs.