Addressing the gathering, President Murmu emphasized that education is a vital tool for unlocking opportunities for growth and development. She lauded St. Thomas College’s enduring commitment to providing quality education to students, particularly those from rural areas, noting that the institution has successfully fulfilled this mission for 75 years.
“Institutions like St. Thomas College are not merely centers of learning, but workshops where destinies are shaped,” the President remarked, appreciating the college’s focus on holistic education, social justice, sustainability, and inclusivity.
The Knowledge Century and Kerala’s Progress
President Murmu described the 21st century as the ‘knowledge century,’ where innovation and learning drive societal self-reliance. She highlighted Kerala’s leadership in human development metrics, attributing it to the state’s emphasis on literacy, education, and knowledge.
The President specifically mentioned Kottayam, praising its historical role in social and educational transformation. She recalled the ‘Vaikom Satyagraha’ against untouchability and the city’s identity as ‘Akshara-nagari’- a hub of literacy and education. She also referenced Shri P.N. Panicker’s influential library movement and the inspiring motto, ‘Vayichu Valaruga’ (Read and Grow), which fueled the ‘Sakshara Keralam’ initiative.
St. Thomas College: Shaping Futures with Values
The President lauded St. Thomas College for promoting intellectual pursuits guided by moral values. She emphasized that the college’s efforts have illuminated the path to both individual and collective progress.
Expressing confidence in the college’s continued contributions, she said, “St. Thomas College will continue to foster quality education and contribute to building a more equitable society and a Viksit Bharat by 2047.”
Looking Ahead
As the Platinum Jubilee celebrations concluded, President Murmu’s remarks reinforced the importance of nurturing educational institutions that combine knowledge with ethical and social responsibility. St. Thomas College, through its longstanding commitment, stands as a symbol of Kerala’s journey in literacy, education, and social transformation.