Kerala Governor Rajendra Vishwanath Arlekar recently highlighted education’s profound power as a catalyst for societal change, moving beyond its conventional role as solely a means to employment.
Speaking at the third convocation of Digital University Kerala (DUK) in Thiruvananthapuram, Governor Arlekar, who also serves as the university’s Chancellor, encouraged graduates to envision their purpose beyond individual success. He called upon them to consider their vital role in shaping the nation’s future, stating, “Your legacy will be defined by your contributions to society.”
He further elaborated on the need to re-evaluate education’s core mission. “Is the pursuit of a degree solely for securing a job or for personal gratification?” he questioned. “Education must aspire to a higher purpose: to ignite a passion for serving the community.”
Praising DUK’s accomplishments, the Governor proudly hailed it as a jewel of Kerala, recognizing its standing as one of the nation’s premier institutions. He then shared a compelling anecdote from his time in Goa, illustrating the transformative advantages of digitalization.
“The decision to make the Goa Legislative Assembly paperless led to significant environmental conservation, saving countless trees from felling,” he explained. “Digitalization, therefore, offers a dual benefit: boosting operational efficiency while safeguarding our planet.”
Dare to Be Job Creators
The Governor passionately urged the graduating class to aspire to be innovators and employers, rather than merely seeking employment. “Far too often, Indian youth opt for the perceived security of limited means over the potentially abundant rewards of embracing risk,” he observed. “I implore you to take bold chances, foster innovation, and step up as leaders.”
Aligning with the Prime Minister’s vision for ‘Viksit Bharat 2047’ (Developed India 2047), Mr. Arlekar voiced his strong belief in the youth’s pivotal role in elevating India to a developed nation by its 100th anniversary of independence.
The convocation ceremony also saw the esteemed presence of University Board of Governors chairperson Vijay Chandru, Vice-Chancellor in-charge Ciza Thomas, and former diplomat T.P. Sreenivasan, among other distinguished guests.