NEW DELHI: President Droupadi Murmu graced and addressed the convocation ceremony of Fakir Mohan University and inaugurated its new Auditorium at Balasore, Odisha.

Speaking on the occasion, the President paid tributes to Vyasakabi Fakir Mohan Senapati Ji and said that during her student days, she was deeply influenced by his timeless story, 'Revati'. That influence remains indelible. The determination of a girl to pursue her education in the 19th century is an enduring testament to her spirit. She said she studied in a remote tribal village and, with her firm resolve, went to Bhubaneswar, where she completed her high school and college education. In this way, Fakir Mohan Ji has been an inspiration to her.

President Murmu said that Fakir Mohan Ji had deep love for his mother tongue. He wrote, "My mother tongue is supreme to me." She stated that receiving education in one's mother tongue allows students to understand their surroundings, customs and cultural environment properly, along with the studies. They become well-acquainted with their civilizational values and way of life. She underlined that the National Education Policy-2020 emphasizes the importance of mother tongue and guides students to stay connected to their culture.

The President said that India has a rich knowledge tradition. Our scriptures and manuscripts are full of knowledge and wisdom. Apart from poetry and literature, they are also a source of knowledge in areas including science, medicine, astronomy and architecture. Young students can conduct research in this ancient knowledge tradition. She said that by understanding the past and comprehending the present, the students can shape their own future as well as the future of the country.

President Murmu congratulated graduating students and said that on the basis of strength of knowledge, passion and commitment, they can achieve respect and recognition in society. She advised them that wherever they go and whatever they do, the key to success in every endeavour is dedication. She said that successful life and meaningful life are not the same. She added that successful life is good, but making life meaningful is even better. She said that it is important to achieve fame, gain prestige and become financially secure, but one should also do something for others. She urged students to help those who have been left behind in their developmental journey. She said that the development of society lies in the development of everyone.

The President was happy to note that Fakir Mohan University gives importance to research and outreach programs in addition to academic studies. She stated that the Balasore-Bhadrak region is famous for paddy, betel leaves, and fish. She appreciated the university for conducting research and training programs in these sectors. She said that the university's programs such as 'Back to School', 'Earn While Learn', 'Each One Teach One', and programs for environmental awareness and beach cleaning are praiseworthy. As blue crabs are found in abundance on the beaches of Balasore and Bhadrak, establishing a research centre on blue crabs or horseshoe crabs demonstrates the university's foresight.

President Murmu said that the growth, security and technological development of all sections of society will accelerate the country's progress. All universities in the country have a crucial role to play in this field. Universities have a special responsibility to act as catalysts of inclusive growth, innovation and social transformation. By nurturing critical thinking, ethical leadership and research that responds to local and global challenges, institutions of higher learning can shape a future that is sustainable, equitable and rooted in human values. She expressed confidence that Fakir Mohan University, through its academic vision and community engagement, will play a transformative role in this direction.