“Education Builds Character, Educated Citizens Shape Nation”: VP Radhakrishnan
C.P. Radhakrishnan Hails 100 Years of St. Berchmans College as Saga of Nation-Building
- Vice-President calls centenary a milestone in nation-building
- Says “Kerala has become Keralam” during third visit to the State
- Urges India to shift from tech adopter to tech creator
- Inaugurates centres for emerging technologies and energy
GG News Bureau
Changanassery, 28th Feb: Vice-President C. P. Radhakrishnan on Saturday graced the valedictory function of the centenary celebrations of St. Berchmans College, describing its 100-year journey as a saga of nation-building and character formation.
Calling the occasion special as his third visit to the State after assuming office, the Vice-President remarked that “Kerala has become Keralam,” reflecting the deep cultural pride and identity of the region.
Referring to the institution’s legacy since its founding in 1922, he said the college had served as a centre of intellectual awakening even during colonial rule and has shaped generations of leaders and citizens. He noted that distinguished alumni, including former Chief Ministers and noted personalities, have carried forward its legacy across the country and beyond.
Emphasising the transformative power of education, the Vice-President said education is the most powerful tool for societal change. “Education builds character. An educated citizen shapes the nation,” he said, urging students to maintain an open mind and respect diverse sentiments.
Highlighting the need for innovation-driven growth, he asserted that India must move beyond merely adopting global technologies. “The era of adopting technology is over. We must become a creator nation so that the world adopts what we produce,” he said, underlining the role of youth in realising the vision of Viksit Bharat.
He said institutions like St. Berchmans College would play a crucial role in shaping responsible citizens and innovators as India progresses under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi.
Recalling the college motto Caritas Vera Nobilitas (Charity is True Nobility), he said true nobility lies in the spirit of giving, whether through knowledge, guidance or compassion. “Living for oneself is not bad, but living only for oneself is bad,” he told students.
On the occasion, the Vice-President also inaugurated the Berchmans Centre for Emerging Technologies and the Dr. K. M. Abraham Centre for Energy and Environment. The Governor of Kerala Rajendra Vishwanath Arlekar and Union Minister Suresh Gopi were among the dignitaries present.
