Murmu Addresses 75th Convocation at MSU Baroda
VADODARA — President Droupadi Murmu addressed the graduating students of Maharaja Sayajirao University of Baroda (MSU) on Wednesday, September 23, during the institution's 75th convocation ceremony. In her address, she urged students to utilize their education and professional skills for the broader benefit of society and the nation rather than focusing solely on personal success.
Murmu asked the graduates to reflect on the purpose of their acquired knowledge. "On this occasion, you should ask yourself: What will you do with your education and knowledge? Only for yourself? For your family? Or for society and the nation as well?" she said.
The President stated that education holds meaning only when it translates into wider social benefit and contributes to both social and personal progress. She emphasized that students who keep the interests of the nation and society at the forefront while pursuing their careers will contribute to this dual progress.
Directives for Specific Professions
Murmu provided specific guidance tailored to various professional paths available to the graduates. She advised engineers to develop technologies that improve people's lives and urged doctors to view medicine as a service rather than merely a profession.
"In service lies reward, peace and satisfaction," Murmu said regarding the medical profession. She noted that while earning money is necessary, it should not be regarded as everything, adding that "service could provide satisfaction alongside financial success."
The President also encouraged scientists to work on solutions for humanity's benefit and artists and writers to use their creativity to enrich society's sensitivity. For those entering the field of teaching, she suggested focusing on preparing a generation that could take India's heritage and development forward together.
Advice for Entrepreneurs and Public Servants
Murmu directed entrepreneurs to focus not only on creating wealth but also on generating employment and opportunities. She urged them to "Live and let live." For individuals entering public life, she advised regarding positions as responsibilities rather than authority.
Linking Graduates to National Goals
The President connected the responsibilities of the graduates to the national goal of building a developed India by 2047. She outlined that this vision includes ensuring access to quality education and healthcare, using science for human welfare, providing equality of opportunity, and enabling women and young people to realize their potential.
Murmu noted that 65 percent of India's population is young, stating that universities and young people have an important role in achieving these national objectives. She urged students to respond to failure with questioning, reflection, and experimentation rather than seeing it as the end of their journey.
Graduates Acknowledge Support Systems
In her address, Murmu reminded the graduating class not to forget their parents, teachers, leaders who supported them, and the society that gave them opportunities while climbing the ladder of success. She emphasized that individual achievement is inextricably linked to the support structures that facilitate it.
Convocation Statistics
The convocation ceremony marked a significant academic milestone for the university. According to reports cited by IANS, 229 PhD, 2,857 Master's, 8,863 Bachelor's, and 657 Postgraduate Diploma candidates were declared qualified for their respective degrees and diplomas at the event.