Mangaluru: The 106th convocation of the University of Mysore (UoM), held on Monday, turned into a celebration of perseverance, academic excellence and social diversity, as students from varied economic and professional backgrounds were honoured for their achievements. Among them, N Aditi from Mulki in Dakshina Kannada district emerged as the undisputed highlight, earning an extraordinary 24 gold medals and eight cash prizes in MSc Chemistry, earning her the title of the convocation’s “golden girl”.
The convocation ceremony showcased how passion for learning and dedication to academics can help students overcome limitations of background and circumstance. From children of daily wage labourers to students whose parents work as KSRTC bus conductors and government employees, the event reflected the inclusive spirit of public higher education in Karnataka.
A stellar academic feat in pure science
Aditi’s performance stood out not only for the sheer number of gold medals she secured but also for the consistency of her academic excellence over the years. An INSPIRE–DST fellowship awardee, she has been recognised nationally for her potential in scientific research.
Speaking after the ceremony, Aditi said her academic journey was driven by a deep interest in pure science rather than conventional career choices. “Even though I wrote the KCET examination, I chose to pursue a BSc and later an MSc because of my love for research in pure science,” she said.
Her decision proved fruitful, as she went on to excel at every stage of her higher education. Before joining the University of Mysore for her postgraduate studies, Aditi had already made her mark by securing a gold medal in her BSc degree from Mangalore University.
From Mulki to Mysuru: A journey of focus and discipline
Hailing from Mulki in Dakshina Kannada district, Aditi credited her upbringing and family support for her success. Her father, Niranjan Nayak, and mother, Shubhalakshmi, are both teachers, and she described them as her greatest inspiration.
“Education was always valued at home, not as a means to secure a job alone, but as a way to understand the world better. My parents encouraged me to ask questions, read widely and stay disciplined,” she said.
Despite coming from a family of educators, Aditi said her achievements were the result of sustained effort, long hours in laboratories and libraries, and a willingness to learn from failure. She added that support from her teachers at the University of Mysore also played a crucial role in shaping her academic path.
Convocation highlights diversity and resilience
University officials said this year’s convocation was special because it highlighted the success stories of students from diverse social and economic backgrounds. Several award winners were first-generation learners or came from modest households, reinforcing the role of public universities in promoting social mobility.
Vice-Chancellor and senior faculty members, while addressing the gathering, emphasised the importance of scientific temper, critical thinking and ethical responsibility among graduates. They noted that students like Aditi exemplified the university’s commitment to nurturing talent in core disciplines such as chemistry, physics and mathematics, which are crucial for the country’s long-term research ecosystem.
Commitment to research and future plans
Looking ahead, Aditi has set her sights firmly on research. Her immediate goal is to pursue a PhD at one of the premier national institutes in India. “I want to continue working in pure science and contribute to research that has long-term value. A PhD from a national institute is my next step,” she said.
With India placing increasing emphasis on scientific innovation, research funding and self-reliance in critical technologies, students like Aditi are expected to play a key role in strengthening the country’s academic and research infrastructure.
Inspiration beyond medals
Social media and academic circles have widely praised Aditi’s achievement, with many calling her success a reminder that dedication to learning can yield exceptional results. Faculty members described her as a disciplined student with strong conceptual clarity and a genuine curiosity for chemistry.
Conclusion
The 106th convocation of the University of Mysore will be remembered not just for the degrees conferred, but for stories like that of N Aditi, whose remarkable haul of 24 gold medals and eight cash prizes symbolised years of hard work and passion for science. As she prepares to take the next step towards a research career, Aditi’s journey from Mulki to Mysuru stands as an inspiration for students across Karnataka and beyond, proving that excellence in education knows no boundaries.