President Droupadi Murmu, delivered the keynote address at the 10th convocation of Babasaheb Bhimrao Ambedkar University in Lucknow (February 13, 2023).
The President stated in his remarks that India has the third largest startup ecosystem in the world. All educational institutions, especially universities and technical educational institutions, should encourage their students to engage in research and innovation by maximising this ecosystem’s benefits. Their efforts would significantly contribute to India’s position as a global leader in innovation and technology.
Underscoring the favourable investment and business climate created by the UP Global Investors Summit-2023, the President urged linking education to this favourable climate. She suggested that our universities should transform themselves into a hub for the Fourth Industrial Revolution and an incubator for start-ups, as well as a centre for conducting new research for the public good. It would be very encouraging if our educational institutions also became messengers of social prosperity and equality.
The President stated that Babasaheb Dr. Bhimrao Ambedkar believed it was a university’s primary responsibility to provide education to poor and needy individuals. According to him, a school should provide quality education to all students without discrimination. She remarked that the Babasaheb Bhimrao Ambedkar University is performing commendable work for the advancement of SC and ST students by providing them with a 50 percent reservation. She expressed confidence that this university would continue to spread education throughout the nation and state in accordance with Babasaheb’s ideals.
The President stated that convocation is a significant event for students. On this day, they reap the rewards of many years of labour. She advised the students that no matter what they aspire to be in life, they must begin working towards their goal immediately and never allow it to remain in their minds. She desired that some students become excellent instructors/professors. She stated that education and instruction are interrelated. The best educators are necessary for the best educational system. By pursuing teaching as a profession, our brightest students can make a significant contribution to the country’s bright future.
The President expressed confidence that today’s graduates would make significant life advancements due to their education and knowledge. However, they must also maintain a connection to our values and culture in order to live a meaningful and fulfilling life. She encouraged them to always strive for excellence. She advised that whenever a crisis arises, one should consider a solution and view it as an opportunity. This would improve their character.