Africa Day celebration at APG Shimla University
The African Union (AU), formerly known as the Organisation of African Unity (OAU) until 2002, was established by 30 independent African nations on 25 May 1963 in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia.
Since 1963, Africa Day has been celebrated to mark the occasion of the establishment of OAU. This year’s Africa Day theme is “Education Fit for the 21st Century”.
The organisation was established with the objective of fostering political and economic integration among the nations of the African continent and eliminating the scourge of colonialism from the continent.
The history of colonial subjugation in India and Africa spans centuries. The long and brutal rule of colonial forces has shaped the identities of the two continents and created a foundation of a strong relationship and solidarity.
Mahatma Gandhi developed the philosophy of Satyagraha and non-violence during his two-decade-long stay in South Africa.
In this context, it becomes even more important to celebrate Africa Day in India.
Africa Day celebration at APG Shimla University
Our university has a strong community of African students studying in different disciplines. The majority of the students are from African countries like Malawi, Mozambique, Cameroon, Uganda, Zambia, Kenya, South Sudan, Tanzania, Nigeria, Congo, and Rwanda.
The student community celebrated Africa Day with great enthusiasm. Distinguished guests, Ms. Beatrice Irene Second Secretary Education, Malawi High Commission and Mr. Dalitso Chipuwa, Second Secretary (Counselor), Malawi High Commission.were warmly welcomed as chief guests.
Chancellor Engineer Suman Vikrant, Pro Chancellor Dr. Ramesh Chauhan, and Vice-Chancellor Dr. Rajender Singh Chauhan presented them with traditional Himachali caps and shawls as tokens of appreciation.
Addressing a packed auditorium of students and faculty, Vice-Chancellor Dr. R.S. Chauhan highlighted the significance of Africa Day. He emphasized the African Union's role in representing a continent of 1.2 billion people and acknowledged Africa's cultural connections and economic engagements with India. Dr. Chauhan stressed the need for continued efforts to ensure a better future for all Africans, particularly in terms of health, prosperity, and access to quality education.
Chief Guest Beatrice Irene, Education Secretary of Malawi, spoke about the special bond between India and Africa. She highlighted India's unwavering support for various sectors in Africa and emphasized the shared historical struggles against imperialism and discrimination that have fostered mutual respect and collaboration.
Africa Day, she noted, serves as a catalyst for unity, friendship, peace, innovation, and educational advancement. It promotes cross-cultural understanding and encourages progress while upholding the values of freedom and national development.
Irene also praised APG Shimla University for its excellent infrastructure and commitment to providing a serene and conducive learning environment for its students.
The event concluded with the dignitaries expressing their gratitude to the management and faculty of APG Shimla University for their dedication to nurturing the academic aspirations of African students and providing them with a world-class education.