Shri Radhakrishnan underlined that education should not be viewed merely as a pathway to employment but as a tool for societal transformation. He urged graduates to apply their learning with integrity, empathy, and a sense of public duty, noting that the nation’s future depends on the ethical choices of its educated youth.
Referring to Puducherry’s rich intellectual and spiritual heritage, the Vice-President recalled the enduring influence of thinkers and poets such as Subramania Bharathi, Bharathidasan, and Sri Aurobindo. He observed that Sri Aurobindo’s philosophy of integrating knowledge, spirituality, and action remains deeply relevant in shaping holistic education.
Pondicherry University’s Academic Achievements
The Vice-President lauded Pondicherry University for securing an A+ grade from the National Assessment and Accreditation Council (NAAC) in its fifth cycle. He said the achievement reflects the university’s commitment to academic excellence, quality research, and institutional governance.
Highlighting the university’s growing global footprint, he noted that it has signed 113 Memoranda of Understanding with national and international institutions. He also praised the accomplishment of 28 faculty members being featured in Stanford University’s World’s Top 2% Scientists List, calling it a significant recognition of India’s research capabilities.
Viksit Bharat @2047 and the Role of Youth
Placing the convocation in the larger national context, Shri Radhakrishnan spoke about India’s journey towards becoming a developed nation by 2047, as envisioned by Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi. He described the vision of Viksit Bharat @2047 as a comprehensive roadmap that seeks economic prosperity, social inclusion, technological leadership, and environmental sustainability.
The Vice-President stressed that young graduates will play a decisive role in achieving this vision. He urged them to innovate, lead with integrity, and work across disciplines to solve complex challenges facing the country.
NEP 2020 and Digital Education Initiatives
Emphasising reforms in the education sector, the Vice-President highlighted the National Education Policy 2020 as a paradigm shift. He said the policy moves India away from rote learning towards critical thinking, multidisciplinary education, and holistic development.
He also drew attention to initiatives of the Ministry of Education such as PM-USHA, SWAYAM, DIKSHA, and the National Digital Library. These platforms, he noted, democratise access to quality education and reinforce the belief that education must be a right for all, not a privilege for a few. More details on these initiatives are available on the Ministry of Education website.
Technology, Ethics, and Social Responsibility
Cautioning against the uncritical adoption of emerging technologies, Shri Radhakrishnan spoke about the rapid changes driven by artificial intelligence, automation, biotechnology, and digital connectivity. He urged students to balance technological enthusiasm with ethical responsibility and human values.
The Vice-President also made a strong appeal to the youth to stay away from substance abuse, urging them to say a firm “No to Drugs” and to actively encourage their peers to do the same.
Wisdom from India’s Ancient Texts
Quoting from the ancient Tamil text Naladiyar, the Vice-President reminded students that while knowledge is infinite, human life is limited. He encouraged graduates to discern wisely, absorb what is meaningful, and commit themselves to lifelong learning guided by ethics and purpose.
He concluded by urging students to ensure that their education shapes them into responsible citizens and compassionate professionals, where success is guided by humility and social responsibility.