Guwahati: Higher Education Must Build Responsible Citizens: VP CP Radhakrishnan

Guwahati: Vice President C P Radhakrishnan on Sunday said higher educational institutions must prepare students to contribute to society, democracy and nation-building rather than focusing only on career opportunities. Addressing the golden jubilee celebrations of Geetanagar College in Guwahati, Radhakrishnan said educational institutions have an important role in building a developed India and creating a skilled workforce for the country's future. During the programme, the Vice President also virtually inaugurated the college's new academic building. In his maiden visit to Assam after assuming office as Vice President, Radhakrishnan said higher education should help students develop a sense of social responsibility and respect for democratic and constitutional values. “Higher education must prepare citizens committed to democracy, constitutional values, social responsibility and nation-building, and not merely careers,” he said. He also stressed that the real success of an educational institution lies in the achievements of its students. According to him, good teaching can help students achieve excellence, while infrastructure alone can only provide facilities. Radhakrishnan urged students to stay away from drugs and encourage their friends to do the same. He also advised them to reduce excessive use of social media. Highlighting India's young population as the country's biggest strength, the Vice President said opportunities in digital technology, artificial intelligence, biotechnology, space research and entrepreneurship could allow young Indians to play a leading role in the country's development. Congratulating Geetanagar College on completing 50 years, Radhakrishnan recalled its journey from a girls' college established in 1977 to a co-educational institution in 2024. He praised the college for its contribution to women's education in Assam and encouraged the institution to set bigger goals for the coming years. The Vice President also highlighted the Centre's focus on the Northeast under Prime Minister Narendra Modi's vision of a developed India. He referred to the Act East Policy and the Asthalakshmi concept for the Northeast, saying these initiatives reflected the Centre's focus on the development of the region. Radhakrishnan praised Assam's rich cultural and historical heritage and also spoke about the state's natural resources, particularly its globally recognised tea. Sharing a personal preference, he said he often asks for Assam tea in his office and also serves it to his guests. The Vice President also appreciated the progress made by Assam in areas such as healthcare, education and the economy, particularly under Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma . Radhakrishnan said CM Sarma had briefed him about concerns related to disaster preparedness and relief measures in the state. He expressed hope that the proposed plans would be implemented successfully. Also Read: Assam: Pedestrian Critically Injured in NH-27 Accident at Khetri