Guwahati: Renowned international educationist and retired Gauhati University professor Prof. Nilima Bhagabati attended the 28th ASSUK Sahitya Sabha Divas as the Guest Speaker, where she delivered an inspiring address on the theme, “A Vibrant Roadmap of Assam for the Future: Reflecting on Its Glorious Past and Adopting Good Practices of the Present in All Sectors of Assam.”
The programme began with the ceremonial flag hoisting by Prof. Bhagabati, followed by a warm welcome from ASSUK President Geeta Borooah, who felicitated the distinguished guest. In her welcome address, Borooah expressed her gratitude to Prof. Bhagabati for accepting ASSUK’s invitation and praised her lifelong contributions to education, leadership, and social development.
ASSUK Secretary Jahnavi Gogoi highlighted Prof. Bhagabati’s extensive work in the field of mental health, noting her invaluable guidance and counselling for students, parents, and teachers through both online and offline platforms. She also outlined the professor’s numerous national and international achievements, honours, and recognitions in education and counselling.
Addressing the gathering, Prof. Bhagabati emphasised the importance of building a “Viksit Assam by 2047” through a balanced approach that honours the state’s rich heritage while embracing progressive practices. She called for the creation of a vibrant roadmap for Assam’s future by reflecting on its glorious past, adopting the best practices of the present, and nurturing a shared vision that fulfils the aspirations of every Assamese, whether living in the state or abroad.
Highlighting the role of families and educators, she stressed that parents and teachers must work together to develop children’s communication skills in the Assamese language from the foundational years. According to her, this is essential to ensure the long-term preservation of Assamese language, culture, traditions, and identity, particularly among the diaspora.
Prof. Bhagabati also urged young people to cultivate a deep sense of pride, love, and respect for their mother tongue and cultural heritage. She appealed to Assamese communities living outside the state to remain connected to their roots by preserving their language, customs, traditions, and family values, regardless of where they reside.
Concluding her address, she delivered a powerful message: “Accept constructive changes and stay rooted to your language and culture.” Her insightful and comprehensive speech, delivered in Assamese, received widespread appreciation and enthusiastic applause from the audience.
Prof. Nilima Bhagabati is a renowned international educationist, a National Focus Member of the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020, and a national mentor and counsellor for students, parents, and teachers.
