Presidency School of Liberal Arts and Sciences, Presidency University, Bengaluru, had the privilege of hosting Mr Rajdeep Sardesai, eminent journalist, author and public intellectual, as the Special Guest at the undergraduate orientation programme held as part of Aurora 2026, the University's orientation programme for the incoming batch of students.

 

The event was graced by Dr Nafeesa Ahmed, Director, Presidency Group of Institutions; Dr Pritha Sanyal, Head of the School of Liberal Arts and Sciences; Deans and Heads of Departments from other schools, faculty members, and the newly admitted undergraduate students of SOLAS.

 

In his keynote address, Mr Sardesai spoke with clarity and conviction about the significance of a liberal arts education in today's rapidly evolving world. He emphasised that liberal arts education extends beyond acquiring disciplinary knowledge—it nurtures critical thinking, responsible questioning, and meaningful engagement with society. He encouraged students to embrace intellectual curiosity, ethical reasoning, and open dialogue as they embark on their academic and personal journeys.

 

A central theme of his address was the importance of dissent, debate, and democracy. Mr Sardesai highlighted that a vibrant democratic society depends on the ability to disagree respectfully, engage in informed debate, and listen to deverse perspectives with an open mind. He reminded students that the University is a space where ideas are examined critically, assumptions are challenged, and differing viewpoints are welcomed. He also underscored the unique responsibility of liberal arts students to cultivate independent thinking and uphold democratic values.

 

The address was followed by an interactive question-and-answer session, during which students engaged with Mr Sardesai on topics including journalism, public life, the media, democracy, and the future of liberal arts education. The discussion was lively, thought-provoking, and reflected the enthusiasm and intellectual curiosity of the new undergraduate cohort.

 

The session marked a meaningful beginning to the students' academic journey, offering both inspiration and direction. Mr Sardesai's insightful address reinforced the vision of the School of Liberal Arts and Sciences as a space dedicated to critical inquiry, democratic engagement, and holistic education. The programme concluded on an optimistic note, setting the tone for a rewarding and intellectually enriching journey at Presidency University.