In 2011, the Kerala University awarded 225 doctoral degrees, with Chemistry topping the list with 27 candidates. Physics followed with 21, Biotechnology with 12 and Botany with ten, according to the university.
Delivering the keynote address at a function organised to honour the doctorate-holders, Dr K S Dasgupta, director, Indian Institute of Space Science and Technology (IIST), said that a PhD provides its holder not just with a degree but increased social responsibility as well.
The society expects academic fidelity, creativity and fact-based perspective from holders of doctoral degrees, he said. It is the duty of all doctorate-holders to rise to these expectations of the society. Researchers should not become ‘pencil babies’ by confining themselves to one area of knowledge, but strive for diversification. Researchers should be able to expand knowledge in their area of study and also be attentive to developments in other areas as well, Dasgupta said.
Researchers should strive hard to be in tune with advances in knowledge, university pro-vice chancellor Dr J Prabhash, who presided over the function, said. Vice-Chancellor Dr A Jayakrishnan, Syndicate members and other officials were present.