President Droupadi Murmu graced the convocation ceremony of Ravenshaw University in Cuttack, Odisha, and laid the foundation stone for the redevelopment of three buildings of Ravenshaw Girls’ High School. Addressing the gathering, she described Ravenshaw University as a historic institution that played a pivotal role in India’s freedom struggle and the movement for the formation of Odisha. She said the university continues to make invaluable contributions to education and women’s empowerment, with its alumni having distinguished themselves as freedom fighters, educationists, litterateurs, philosophers, political leaders, social reformers, scientists and artists.
The President expressed satisfaction over the university’s strides in research, innovation and inclusivity. She noted its active engagement with industry partners through consultancy services and technology transfers, and praised the Centre of Design, Innovation and Entrepreneurship for promoting ideation, translational research and entrepreneurship. She highlighted the university’s efforts to increase enrollment from tribal areas, underprivileged groups and persons with disabilities.
She said the current era is defined by science and technology, with Artificial Intelligence, Machine Learning, 3D Printing and Cloud Computing transforming thought and work processes. She commended the university for its adoption of these technologies and cautioned against their misuse.
The President said India is in its Amrit Kaal, with the national goal of becoming a developed country by 2047. She described the sentiment of “nation first” as India’s greatest strength and urged students to draw inspiration from soldiers, farmers, scientists, engineers, doctors and professionals across fields who are working to elevate the nation’s pride. She called on students to contribute to national development with knowledge, skill and devotion.
At the foundation stone-laying ceremony for the redevelopment of Ravenshaw Girls’ High School, the President said quality teaching and good infrastructure are essential for a conducive educational environment. She expressed confidence that the upgraded facilities will enhance the school’s offerings and appreciated the Central and State governments for supporting girls’ education.
She observed that girls consistently perform better when given equal opportunities and facilities, and noted that women are actively contributing across domains including education, literature, science, technology, industry and commerce. She encouraged girl students to take inspiration from successful women and affirmed that with knowledge, self-confidence, skill and determination, they can achieve even the impossible
