President Droupadi Murmu Highlights Role of Education in Nation-Building at GNDU Convocation

Amritsar, January 15: President of India  Droupadi Murmu on Thursday addressed the convocation ceremony of Guru Nanak Dev University (GNDU), emphasizing that education goes beyond earning a livelihood and plays a vital role in serving society and strengthening the nation.

Addressing graduating students, the President said that as they step into diverse professional paths—ranging from government service and private employment to research, entrepreneurship, and teaching—they must carry certain core values that remain essential across all fields. She underlined the importance of lifelong learning, integrity, moral courage, adaptability, teamwork, discipline, and using knowledge for the collective good rather than personal benefit. According to her, these qualities shape not only successful professionals but also responsible citizens.

President Murmu reminded students that society contributes significantly to their educational journey, creating a moral responsibility to give back. She encouraged graduates to support inclusive development and help uplift sections of society that have been left behind.

Referring to India’s rapid progress over the past decade, the President noted the expansion of opportunities in technology and entrepreneurship, spanning sectors from agriculture and artificial intelligence to defence and space. She said higher education institutions can further accelerate national growth by promoting research, fostering stronger industry-academia partnerships, and supporting innovations that address social needs.

The President also expressed concern over the growing challenge of drug abuse in Punjab, particularly among the youth. She described it as a serious issue affecting health, social harmony, and economic stability, and stressed that universities like GNDU have a crucial role in guiding young minds towards positive and purposeful paths.

Highlighting the vision of ‘Viksit Bharat’, President Murmu said the next two decades would be decisive for India’s future. She called upon educational institutions to nurture scientific thinking, social responsibility, and selfless service among students, urging young citizens to ensure their professional contributions strengthen the nation and uphold human values.

The President praised Guru Nanak Dev University for being founded on the teachings of Sri Guru Nanak Dev Ji, stating that his ideals of equality, compassion, and universal welfare remain deeply relevant today. She noted that his teachings offer solutions to many contemporary social challenges.

Commending the university’s efforts toward women empowerment, President Murmu said the strong presence of female students among degree and medal recipients reflects progress toward gender equality. She emphasized that empowering women with confidence and opportunity is essential for the overall development of society and the nation.