New Delhi, Jan 12 (NationPress) Vice-President (V-P) C.P. Radhakrishnan, during the ninth Convocation of Jawaharlal Nehru University (JNU) on Monday, called upon new graduates to channel their education and skills towards nation-building.

In his address, V-P Radhakrishnan highlighted that only through education and effective training can the youth of India achieve Prime Minister Narendra Modi's vision of a Viksit Bharat @2047.

Reflecting on the teachings of Swami Vivekananda on his birth anniversary, he noted that education should transcend mere degrees, focusing instead on developing character, enhancing intellect, and empowering individuals to be self-reliant.

The Vice-President urged the graduates to embrace three essential responsibilities: intellectual honesty in the search for truth, social inclusion to mitigate inequalities, and an active role in national development.

He encouraged them to be guided by constitutional values and the rich civilizational ethos of India, and to always show respect for their parents and teachers.

Referencing India's illustrious tradition of knowledge, he cited ancient educational hubs like Nalanda and Takshashila, reminding that Indian scriptures and classics—from the Upanishads and the Bhagavad Gita to Kautilya's Arthashastra and Thiruvalluvar's Thirukkural—have always placed learning at the heart of moral and social life.

He stressed that true education shapes conduct and character, extending beyond the mere acquisition of degrees.

The Vice-President asserted the need for modern science to harmonize with traditional values.

Discussing JNU's democratic ethos, he remarked that debate, discussion, dissent, and even confrontation are vital components of a healthy democracy.

However, he emphasized the importance of reaching a conclusion from these discussions.

Once a decision is made, he insisted, there must be a collective commitment to work together for its successful implementation, ensuring effective governance.

He praised JNU's inclusive environment and its initiatives to promote equity and social inclusion in student admissions and faculty recruitment.

Additionally, he commended the university's leadership for broadening academic engagement into emerging and civilizational fields, including the establishment of new Centres for Hindu, Jain, and Buddhist Studies at the School of Sanskrit and Indic Studies.

He also acknowledged JNU's ongoing efforts to promote Indian languages through initiatives like the Special Centre for Tamil Studies and programs in languages such as Assamese, Odia, Marathi, and Kannada, asserting that knowledge creation should thrive in mother tongues, aligned with the ethos of the National Education Policy.