PASIGHAT, Mar 15: Arunachal Pradesh University (APU) accorded a warm send-off to its founding Vice Chancellor Prof Tomo Riba in a function held here today.
The event, attended by faculty members, administrative staff, and students, was marked by warmth and emotion as colleagues and co-workers gathered to honour his contributions.
In his farewell address, Prof Riba urged those present to live well, stay healthy, and remain committed to serving society. “Live a good life. Do not suffer — sufferings are created by yourself only,” he said.
He called on faculty, staff, and students to be honest, contribute meaningfully to society, and carry forward the values of hard work and humility. “Be honest, be useful to society, and be good agents of change,” he said.
He also took a moment to fondly acknowledge the Geography Department of Rajiv Gandhi University, where his own academic journey had taken root, expressing gratitude for the foundation it gave him.
In a moment that visibly moved the gathering, Prof Riba asked to be remembered beyond his role as an administrator. "Remember me as a father, as a grandfather,” he said, bringing an emotional end to his address.
Registrar Narmi Darang paid tribute to Prof Riba, describing his guidance over the years as that of a guardian, a protector, and an unfailing solver of problems.
He said that whenever he faced a difficult administrative situation, meeting with the Vice Chancellor always brought clarity and assurance.
Controller of Examinations Dr Monshi Tayeng brought a personal dimension to the tributes, recalling Prof Riba as his teacher.
Many other faculty members and staff also shared personal memories and tributes, each reflecting a consistent picture of a Vice Chancellor who was accessible, present, and deeply invested in the people around him.
The APU Teachers’ Association presented a citation of appreciation to Prof Riba in recognition of his contributions to the academic and institutional development of the university.
A short biopic video tracing Prof Riba's life from childhood to the present day, produced by the Department of Mass Communication, APU, was also screened during the programme and drew a strong emotional response from those present.