Guwahati, Sept 6 (PTI): Vice President C P Radhakrishnan on Sunday said higher educational institutions must prepare students to make meaningful contributions to society and democracy, rather than merely equip them for careers
Addressing the golden jubilee celebrations of Geetanagar College here, Radhakrishnan underlined the role of these institutions in nation-building and promoting inclusive growth.
He also inaugurated the new academic building of the college, which was formerly known as Kanya Mahavidyalaya, through the virtual mode on the occasion.
In his maiden visit to Assam after becoming the vice president, Radhakrishnan said educational institutions were among the most important vehicles for building a developed India, as they can create the workforce required to realise the vision.
“Higher education must prepare citizens committed to democracy, constitutional values, social responsibility and nation-building, and not merely careers,” he said.
“The success of educational institutions is reflected in the success of their students. Quality teaching can ensure excellence in students, while infrastructure can only build facilities,” the vice president said.
He also urged students to stay away from drugs and encourage their friends to do the same.
Radhakrishnan advised students to restrict their use of social media, too.
He said the country’s young population is its greatest strength and that the opportunities emerging in areas such as artificial intelligence, digital technology, biotechnology, space research and entrepreneurship can enable the youth to play a leading role in building a developed India.
The vice president congratulated all associated with the Geetanagar College on its golden jubilee, dwelling on its journey from being established as a girls’ college in 1977 to emerging as a co-educational centre in 2024 with numerous milestones.
He lauded the college’s contribution as a pioneer in women education in the state. “The Geetanagar College should be proud of its past achievements, and also fix and achieve ambitions and goals in the future,” he said.
Radhakrishnan said the northeast has been given priority in Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision for a developed India. “The PM has emphasised on the ‘Act East Policy’ and ‘Asthalakhsmi’ concept for the northeast. It shows how he prioritises the region’s development,” the vice president said. Noting that Modi has visited the region more than any other prime minister, Radhakrishnan said it was a testimony of his interest in the northeast and its development.
Highlighting the rich culture, history and legacy of Assam, he said the state is also endowed with natural resources and is particularly famous globally for its tea.
“Whenever I am in my office chambers… I ask for Assam tea for myself. I serve it to my guests, too,” he said.
Radhakrishnan also hailed the progress made by the state in recent years, particularly under Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma, in various fields, including healthcare, education and economy.
“The chief minister was explaining to me how deeply concerned he is about disaster relief and prevention. He has plans for addressing these and I hope those can be implemented successfully,” the vice president added.
