Kerala’s Cultural Identity and the College Legacy
During his third visit to Kerala after assuming office, the Vice-President described the occasion as special, stating, “Kerala has become Keralam,” emphasizing the state’s rich cultural identity. He recalled the college’s historic role as a hub of intellectual awakening during India’s colonial period and praised its evolution as a center of academic excellence.
Founded in 1922, St. Berchmans College has nurtured generations of leaders and innovators. The Vice-President highlighted illustrious alumni including actor Prem Nazir and former Chief Ministers Shri C. Kesavan Nair and Shri Oommen Chandy, noting that producing two Chief Ministers reflects the institution’s significant influence on Kerala’s development.
Education, Character, and Nation-Building
Shri Radhakrishnan emphasized that education is more than academics—it is a tool for societal transformation. “Education builds character; educated citizens shape society and the nation,” he said, urging lifelong learning regardless of social or economic background. He also stressed mutual respect, noting that understanding others’ sentiments is essential to nurturing a harmonious society.
The Vice-President underscored the importance of research and innovation in the modern era. “The time of merely adopting technologies is over. India must become a creator nation so that the world adopts what we produce,” he asserted, calling on students to contribute to the country’s technological and developmental progress.
Message to Students: Dream Big, Serve Society
Addressing the students, the Vice-President reminded them that they represent the second century of St. Berchmans College. “The next hundred years will be written by your ideas, your courage, and your commitment. Dream big. Work hard. Stay rooted in values,” he urged. He linked this vision to the college’s motto, Caritas Vera Nobilitas (Charity is True Nobility), highlighting that true nobility lies in giving back to society, whether through time, knowledge, or support, rather than wealth alone.
He further lauded India’s youth as a driving force for the nation’s transformation under the leadership of Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, reinforcing the critical role of institutions like St. Berchmans College in nurturing innovators and responsible citizens.
Centenary Inaugurations
During the celebrations, the Vice-President inaugurated the Berchmans Centre for Emerging Technologies and the Dr. K. M. Abraham Centre for Energy and Environment, signaling the college’s commitment to innovation and sustainable development. The event was attended by Kerala Governor Shri Rajendra Vishwanath Arlekar, Union Minister of State Shri Suresh Gopi, Kerala Minister Shri V. N. Vasavan, and other dignitaries.
