Education is Meaningful Only When Society Benefits: President Droupadi Murmu at Maharaja Sayajirao University Convocation

President of India Smt. Droupadi Murmu attended the 75th Annual Convocation of Maharaja Sayajirao University in Vadodara, Gujarat, on September 23, 2026. Addressing the students and academicians on the occasion, the President stated that education becomes truly meaningful only when it provides real benefits to the country and society.

Praising the university's 75-year journey, the President noted that the institution is moving forward by integrating various streams of knowledge. Mentioning the challenges of the current era, she emphasized that the solution to any problem can no longer be limited to a single stream of study. She stated that resolving today's critical issues requires a multidisciplinary approach that incorporates the curiosity of a scientist, the sensitivity of an artist, the vision of a historian, the understanding of an economist, and the consciousness of a sociologist. She expressed hope that higher education institutions like Maharaja Sayajirao University would remain continuously dynamic in this direction.

Inspiring the students receiving their degrees, the President urged them to reflect on the purpose of their education and knowledge. She remarked that when youth prioritize the interests of the nation and society in their professional fields, it will lead to national development alongside their personal progress, bringing them immense satisfaction.

Calling for social service through various professions, the President suggested that engineers should develop technology that improves lives, doctors should view medicine as a service rather than a profession, and scientists should find solutions for the benefit of humanity. She urged entrepreneurs to focus on creating employment and opportunities instead of merely earning wealth. Additionally, she called upon teachers to prepare a young generation that balances heritage with development and advised those entering public life to view their positions as responsibilities rather than powers.

Concluding her address, the President mentioned the national goal of a 'Developed India' by 2047. She shared a vision of an India where quality education, health facilities, equality of opportunity, and the use of science and technology are dedicated to human welfare. She stated that the role of universities and youth is extremely vital in achieving the goal of providing a dignified life to every citizen by utilizing the full potential of women and young people.