Graduation 2008

25 September 2008 was Graduation Day at Asian University. This year is also the tenth anniversary of the University which, over the last ten years, has given out over 100 scholarships, and generated almost 400 graduates.

The ceremony started with the academic procession, lead by Dr. Danai carrying the University Standard, entering the auditorium. The President, Dr. Viphandh Roengpithya, welcomed everyone, especially Lord Ronald Oxburgh, who had come from UK again to confer the degrees.

Dr. Vip then read a message from HE Anand Panyarachun, who has been a friend of the university since the start. Khun Anand congratulated the new graduates and wished them all success in their careers and lives. He mentioned that learning is never static, and the learning obtained at the university is just the beginning of their life long learning. Dr. Vip gave a brief report of the first ten years of the university and the College at Asian University, and then handed over to Lord Oxburgh for the most important business of the day.

The faculties presented their candidates in turn, starting with the Business faculty (MBA and BBA) then the Engineering and Technology faculty (BEng) and finally the newest faculty, Liberal Arts (BA). Each candidate was awarded their degree certificate, along with a few words of encouragement from Lord Oxburgh.

Lord Oxburgh addressed the audience, and asked the new graduates to show their appreciation to their parents for their encouragement and support. He spoke about the problems now confronting the world; water shortages, energy shortages and too many people. He also explained that these problems offer opportunities, especially for innovation to reduce energy use. He was sure that the world would never see the cheap energy of the last century, and therefore we all have to rethink how people live.

After the academic procession left the auditorium, there were numerous photographs taken, plus celebratory chocolate cake for all.

Thank you to Robert B for some of the photos