President Murmu Calls Universities Drivers of Social Change
Addressing Fakir Mohan University convocation, President stresses inclusive growth, innovation and values
- President Murmu addresses convocation at Fakir Mohan University, Balasore
- Emphasises mother-tongue education under NEP 2020
- Calls universities catalysts of inclusive growth and innovation
- Praises research, outreach and community programmes of the university
GG News Bureau
New Delhi, 3rd Feb: President of India Droupadi Murmu on Tuesday graced and addressed the convocation ceremony of Fakir Mohan University and inaugurated the university’s new auditorium at Balasore in Odisha.
Paying tributes to legendary Odia writer Fakir Mohan Senapati, the President said she was deeply influenced during her student days by his timeless story Revati, which depicts a girl’s determination to pursue education in the 19th century. She recalled her own journey from a remote tribal village to Bhubaneswar for higher studies, describing Fakir Mohan Senapati as a lasting source of inspiration.
Highlighting the importance of mother-tongue education, President Murmu said that learning in one’s own language helps students understand their cultural and civilisational roots more deeply. She noted that the National Education Policy 2020 strongly emphasises education in the mother tongue to keep learners connected with their heritage.
The President said India has a rich knowledge tradition, with ancient scriptures and manuscripts offering insights not only in literature and philosophy but also in science, medicine, astronomy and architecture. She encouraged students to explore this knowledge base through research, saying an understanding of the past combined with awareness of the present can help shape the nation’s future.
Congratulating the graduating students, Murmu said knowledge, commitment and passion can earn respect and recognition, but reminded them that a successful life and a meaningful life are not the same. “Success is important, but making life meaningful by contributing to society is even more valuable,” she said, urging students to support those left behind in the development process.
The President appreciated Fakir Mohan University’s focus on research and outreach alongside academics. She lauded initiatives such as ‘Back to School’, ‘Earn While Learn’, ‘Each One Teach One’, environmental awareness drives and beach-cleaning programmes. She also welcomed the university’s research and training efforts linked to the Balasore-Bhadrak region’s strengths in paddy, betel leaves and fisheries, and described proposed research on blue crabs and horseshoe crabs as a sign of institutional foresight.
Stressing the broader role of higher education institutions, President Murmu said universities have a special responsibility to act as catalysts of inclusive growth, innovation and social transformation. By nurturing critical thinking, ethical leadership and locally relevant research, universities can help build a sustainable and equitable future. She expressed confidence that Fakir Mohan University would continue to play a transformative role through its academic vision and community engagement.
