Subhanshu Shukla: A Cosmic Journey to Honorary Recognition
In a historic ceremony in Lucknow, Astronaut Subhanshu Shukla will receive an honorary degree, marking a milestone in his stellar career.

The Cosmic Marvel of Lucknow
In a ceremony set to be enveloped in both honor and inspiration, Group Captain Subhanshu Shukla, a luminary in space exploration and an Indian Air Force hero, will grace Dr. A P J Abdul Kalam Technical University’s 23rd convocation in Lucknow. The highlight of this grand event, to be presided over by Uttar Pradesh Governor Anandiben Patel, is Shukla’s acceptance of an honorary Doctor of Science degree—a momentous recognition for his groundbreaking journey into space.
An Astronaut’s Historic Achievements
Adding a stellar feather to his cap, Shukla made history by becoming the second Indian to venture into space after Rakesh Sharma, and the first to dock at the International Space Station. Such achievements not only illustrate his extraordinary dedication but also serve as a beacon for aspiring astronauts and scientists on their own cosmic quests.
Educational Excellence at AKTU
This convocation recognizes not just individual achievements but celebrates the strides in education that AKTU embodies. With forward-looking initiatives like the introduction of a new minor degree course in space technology, spearheaded by Vice Chancellor Prof JP Pandey, the university underscores its commitment to expanding its educational horizons and aligning with cutting-edge technological advancements.
Celebrating Innovation and Academic Achievement
Reflecting the spirit of innovation, AKTU will also spotlight pioneering efforts in entrepreneurship. The introduction of Student Startup Awards highlights categories such as women-led startups and tech innovation, illustrating the university’s nurturing ecosystem that empowers students to convert dreams into reality.
A Ceremony of Medals and Academic Honors
The convocation will witness an impressive array of honors, with 53,943 degrees being awarded and a constellation of 88 medals shimmering brightly. Among them, Nancy from Pranveer Singh Institute of Technology and Unnati Gaur from RD Engineering College will receive top honors, epitomizing academic excellence.
Towards an Innovative Future
With initiatives like “One District, One Incubation Centre” and new degree paths for BTech students, AKTU is laying down a robust framework to not only enhance employability but also meet the dynamic demands of industries. These efforts represent not just progress within education but a pivotal step towards nurturing future pioneers in science and technology.
As stated in NewsDrum, this event promises to be a milestone not only in Shukla’s career but in the narrative of AKTU’s commitment to educational excellence. The ceremony is a confluence of inspiration, aspiration, and achievement - a true celebration of learning and exploration.