PRESIDENT OF INDIA IN LUCKNOW; GRACES 9TH CONVOCATION OF BABASAHEB BHIMRAO AMBEDKAR UNIVERSITY

Rashtrapati Bhavan : 26.08.2021

The President of India, Shri Ram Nath Kovind graced and addressed the 9th convocation of the Babasaheb Bhimrao Ambedkar University in Lucknow today (August 26, 2021).

Speaking on the occasion, the President said that the Babasaheb Bhimrao Ambedkar University is making a special contribution for the inclusive development of scheduled castes and scheduled tribes through education, in accordance with the vision of Dr. Bhimrao Ambedkar. He noted that in this university special provision of reservation of 50 percent seats in admissions and other facilities for students of scheduled castes and scheduled tribes have opened the opportunities of higher education for them. He said that it is also a praise worthy initiative to encourage notable performers amongst these students by giving them separate medals. All these efforts would strengthen the inclusive culture of this university and contribute to fulfilling Babasaheb's dream of an egalitarian society.

Addressing the students, the President said that changes are taking place all over the world in almost all aspects of life at a fast pace. In such times, students have to make their place in today's dynamic global scenario remaining alert and aware. They also have to contribute in building a better society and the country the President said, adding that in Babasaheb's books, articles and speeches, students would find many such guiding and inspiring references which would be helpful for them in their career and nation-building.

Pointing that India has a very good start-up ecosystem today and it is ranked third in the world on the basis of the total number of unicorns, the President said that had Babasaheb been alive today, he would have been very happy to see this. Babasaheb was in favour of hard work and self-employment. The President said that most unicorns are set up by youngsters and the youth power is the biggest strength of our country. He urged students of Babasaheb Bhimrao Ambedkar University to take inspiration from these young entrepreneurs and instead of being a job-seeker, think about becoming a job-creator. He was happy to note that efforts are being made to promote innovation and entrepreneurship in this University.

Addressing the young students in the audience, the President expressed hope that they would be aware about the Amrit Mahotsav being celebrated all over the country on the occasion of the 75th year of independence and they would also be participating in one way or the other. He said that in the year 2047, when our country would celebrate the centenary of independence, then the youth of today would be leading the country. He expressed confidence that with the efforts of young generation, India of 2047 would be established as a developed country, free of any social discrimination in accordance with the constitutional ideals of justice, equality and fraternity. We would be playing a decisive role in creating an inclusive world order. He said that for the creation of such an egalitarian and strong India, students must start working from today.