Universities have to assume greater responsibility, says President at Jamia convocation

0
879

By IndiaTomorrow.net,
New Delhi, 17 Nov 2014: Universities, being an integral part of the society, have to assume greater responsibility for overall development and mitigation of problems concerning our society at large, said President of India Pranab Mukherjee while speaking at the Annual Convocation of Jamia Millia Islamia here on Monday.

He said higher academic institutions of the country should provide a platform for grassroots innovation.

“Technology development and innovative ideas can transform the lives of the common man, society and the nation. There are novel ideas that could be tapped for greater common benefit. Out higher academic institutions have to provide a platform where grassroots innovation can be mentored and moulded. Creative thinking and a spirit of inquisitiveness have to be promoted in our learning institutions. Scientific temper and analytical rigour have to be cultivated, and plurality in academic approach and autonomy of mind encouraged,” said the President.

Jamia Millia Islamia was founded in 1920 by luminaries like Maulana Mohammad Ali Jauhar, Maulana Mahmood Hasan, Hakim Ajmal Khan, A.M. Khawaja, Dr. Mukhtar Ahmad Ansari and Dr. Zakir Husain. In 1925, its campus was shifted from Aligarh to Delhi. In 1962, Jamia was granted ‘deemed university’ status and in 1988, it became a Central University. Two years back, it was granted status of a minority institution.

President Mukherjee highlighted the academic role of Jamia.

“Since its inception, Jamia has fostered understanding of India’s rich history and culture, including the cultural traditions of Islam. Through its academic programmes, it has instilled in students a national perspective,” he said.

President Pranab Mukherjee and HRD Minister Smriti Irani at the Annual Convocation of Jamia Millia Islamia in New Delhi on 17 Nov 2014.

He asked young graduates to make contribution to the society in whatever field they choose to work.

“This is your moment of glory. At the same time, it is also an occasion to ponder over your priorities in life. Whatever field you choose to work in, make your contribution to the society. Being the bright young minds of our nation, help mitigate the problems afflicting us. As we grapple with issues like drinking water, sanitation, infrastructure, health, crime and gender bias, your perceptive insights coupled with initiative can help overcome them. You will find your education useful only if you make yourself useful to the society.”

HRD Minister Smriti Irani and Vice Chancellor of Jamia Millia Islamia Prof Talat Ahmed also addressed the students. Graduates, postgraduates and research scholars who passed in 2013 were awarded degrees on the occasion.

LEAVE A REPLY

Please enter your comment!
Please enter your name here