National Law Universities came into existence with the express goal to provide quality legal education in India. Quality legal education comes with many sub-texts too. It remains meaningful if it inculcates values, ethics, discipline and promotes healthy life style among its students and academics. At the National Law University Odisha (NLUO) the focus will not be limited to providing quality education rather it will be considered equally important to promote committed citizenry, discipline and healthy life style. The generation we are admitting into the academic programs of NLUO mostly comprise of generation Z. The paradigm shift between these technology natives and their counterparts including parents and teachers has created an impasse which needs to be addressed innovatively, inclusively and an approach that is fit-for-purpose for the times we are living in.

NLUO was established by the National Law University Odisha Act, 2008, and commenced academic programs from the year 2009-2010. It has established its campus alongside the banks of the river Mahanadi, often known as the lifeline of Odisha, in the city of Cuttack. Cuttack, a city of continued civilisation and habitation for over 1000 years of recorded history. NLUO sits at the kathajodi bank of the mahanadi river, hence the name kathajodi campus. Kathajodi is the distributary of mahanadi river, it minimises the flooding potential and impact of Mahanadi. It is life reinforcing. I see the NLUO campus name and location and the discipline of Law as life-reinforcing too, especially when we think of law as an instrument of justice.

I am honoured and humbled to be leading the University at a time, when it has made a substantial journey and is striving to make a name and mark in the global academic universe for quality education. NLUO believes dedicated teachers, students, staff, the engagement of the university with the citizenry, the larger society and the relevant instruments of states build a university. The students joining the academic programs at NLUO can expect an engaging and enriching andragogy, challenging and relevant curriculum and vibrant campus life, in and outside the classrooms.

The twenty active research centres of the university provide ample opportunities to the students to immerse themselves in their interest areas and pick up new interests too. The moot society, quiz society, sports committee, debate society, pro bono club and other clubs provide opportunity for students to connect with the real world and develop essential skills, thus, providing them the most sought-after experiential learning.

Universities constantly strive to provide comprehensive education relevant to an ever-evolving society and enhance the quality of life of students on campus and make them life-ready. I welcome the current and future students on board for a life affirming experience and knowledge and skills that will stand them in good stead in the world of law, academics and all aspects of life.

Let NLUO remain the place for a life changing learning!