The Central Tribal University of Andhra Pradesh (CTUAP), Vizianagaram, celebrated its Foundation Day with great enthusiasm and fervour on 5th August 2026 . The event was presided over by the Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Tantravahi Srinivasan. The Chief Guest for the occasion was Padma Shri Chintalapati Venkatapati Raju, the renowned artisan of the famous Etikoppaka wooden toys. Addressing the gathering, he highlighted the uniqueness of Etikoppaka toys, the importance of preserving tribal and indigenous art forms, and the role of traditional handicrafts in creating sustainable livelihood opportunities. He encouraged the youth to embrace self-employment through indigenous crafts and recalled that the Prime Minister had appreciated Etikoppaka toys in the Mann Ki Baat programme. He emphasized that preserving India’s rich traditional arts is the collective responsibility of every citizen.
The Guest of Honour, Prof. Srikrishna Deva Rao, Vice-Chancellor of NALSAR University of Law, spoke on the constitutional rights of tribal communities, the transformative power of education, inclusive development, and the role of higher education in achieving social justice. Referring to Vizianagaram as the land associated with eminent personalities such as Gurajada Apparao, he remarked that establishing a Central Tribal University in such a culturally significant region is a matter of great pride. He urged tribal youth to achieve empowerment through education and contribute to enhancing the nation’s prestige.
In his presidential address, Prof. Tantravahi Srinivasan, Vice-Chancellor of CTUAP, highlighted the University’s remarkable progress since its establishment. He reaffirmed the University’s commitment to implementing the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020, promoting tribal education and research, skill development, and preserving indigenous knowledge systems. He also stated that the University has been introducing several innovative initiatives for the holistic development of its students.
Speaking on the occasion, Finance Officer Sri Mukkamala Sarat Chandra Babu and University Librarian Dr. Shankar Reddy Kolle elaborated on the various initiatives undertaken by the University for the welfare of students and staff, transparent governance, academic excellence, student support services, and infrastructure development.
The programme was coordinated by Dr. Anirudh Kumar. Members of the organising committee, including Dr. Divya, Dr. Prama Chatterjee, Dr. I. Tarakeswara Rao, Dr. N. V. S. Suryanarayana, Mr. Manish Kumar, and Mr. Satya Rao, played an active role in the successful conduct of the event. Heads of Departments, faculty members, non-teaching staff, and a large number of students participated in the celebrations.
Colourful tribal dance performances by the students added vibrancy to the event and captivated the audience.
