President Draupadi Murmu on Thursday attended and addressed the convocation ceremony of Guru Nanak Dev University in Amritsar, Punjab. Speaking on the occasion, the President said that after completing formal education, students will start their journey in different directions.

He said some will serve in the government or private sector, some will pursue higher education or research, while many will set up their own businesses or pursue a career in teaching.

Although each field requires different qualifications and skills, certain qualities are equally essential and helpful for progress in every field.

These qualities are constant desire and perseverance to learn, strong adherence to moral values, integrity and honesty even in adverse and difficult circumstances, courage to embrace change, determination to learn and move forward from failures, spirit of teamwork and cooperation, disciplined use of time and resources and use of knowledge and abilities not for personal gain but for the larger interest of the society and the nation.

President Draupadi Murmu said that these qualities will not only make him a good professional but also a responsible citizen. The President reminded the students that education is not only a means of livelihood but also a means of service to the society and the nation.

He said that he is indebted to the society which has provided him education. Making efforts for the upliftment of people who have lagged behind in the path of development can be a way to repay this debt. In the last decade, India has made significant progress in the field of technological development and entrepreneurial culture.

Today, from agriculture to AI and defense to space, there are many entrepreneurial opportunities available to the youth. Our higher education institutions can further accelerate this progress by promoting research, strengthening industry-academia collaboration and encouraging socially relevant innovations.

The President said that in recent years, the problem of drug abuse has emerged as a serious challenge in Punjab, with the youth being the most affected. This problem is affecting not only health but also the social, economic and moral fabric of the society.

A permanent solution to this problem is necessary for a healthy society. In this context, the role of educational institutions like Guru Nanak Dev University is important. All stakeholders of this university should make every possible effort to guide the youth in the right direction.

He said that the next two decades are very important in building a ‘developed India’. The future of India depends on those youth who are scientifically minded, act responsibly and serve selflessly.

He urged higher education institutions to inculcate these values ​​in their students. He also urged the young students to ensure that whatever profession they choose, their contribution is helpful in strengthening the nation and strengthening human values.