Vice-President C. P. Radhakrishnan Emphasizes Character Building for Viksit Bharat
The Diamond Jubilee celebrations of Fatima Mata National College in Kollam were marked by a significant address from India’s Vice-President, Shri C. P. Radhakrishnan. The event, which commemorated 75 years of the college’s contributions to education and nation-building, was attended by notable figures including Kerala’s Governor, Union Minister, and various dignitaries. Radhakrishnan emphasized the importance of education intertwined with character building and called for a collective effort to combat drug abuse among youth.
Celebrating 75 Years of Educational Excellence
Fatima Mata National College, founded in 1951 by Reverend Dr. Jerome M. Fernandez, celebrated its Diamond Jubilee with a grand event that highlighted its long-standing commitment to education. The Vice-President of India, Shri C. P. Radhakrishnan, served as the Chief Guest, reflecting on the institution’s impact over the past 75 years. The celebration was attended by a host of dignitaries, including Kerala Governor Shri Rajendra Vishwanath Arlekar, Union Minister Shri Suresh Gopi, and Kerala Finance Minister Shri K. N. Balagopal, among others. The gathering included faculty, students, alumni, and parents, all united in honoring the college’s legacy.
During his address, Radhakrishnan praised the college for not only fostering academic excellence but also instilling values such as self-discipline and social responsibility. He noted that these virtues are essential for shaping citizens who can contribute positively to society. The Vice-President’s remarks underscored the institution’s role as a beacon of knowledge and a promoter of ethical values in education.
Education and Character Building
In his speech, Vice-President Radhakrishnan stressed that education should go hand in hand with character development. He described character building as the foundation for a meaningful life and a strong society. He highlighted the institution’s motto, *Per Matrem Pro Patria* (“Through the Mother for the Fatherland”), as a guiding principle that has inspired generations to live with integrity and purpose. Radhakrishnan acknowledged the courage and community spirit required to establish educational institutions in the past, commending Fatima Mata National College for maintaining this legacy.
The Vice-President also made a passionate appeal for a nationwide movement against drug abuse, emphasizing the urgent need to address this pressing issue among the youth. He urged parents, teachers, and students to work together to promote a drug-free lifestyle, which he deemed essential for the health and moral strength of individuals and society as a whole.
Encouraging Responsible Use of Technology
Radhakrishnan further encouraged students to use social media responsibly, cautioning them about its potential for misuse. He acknowledged the power of technology to connect and inform but warned that careless usage could lead to misinformation and division. The Vice-President called on the youth to utilize social media as a platform for promoting truth, compassion, and national unity.
Drawing inspiration from the Tamil poet Thiruvalluvar, he reiterated that education is the greatest wealth one can possess. He urged students to cultivate discipline and maintain a lifelong commitment to learning, emphasizing the importance of nurturing future leaders, innovators, and thinkers who can guide India toward a self-reliant and developed future.
A Vision for the Future
In closing, Vice-President Radhakrishnan commended the achievements of Kerala in education and literacy, attributing these successes to the vision of pioneers like the founders of Fatima Mata National College. He expressed confidence that the institution would continue to thrive and contribute to the nation’s educational landscape, envisioning a future where it celebrates its centenary in a developed India.
Radhakrishnan concluded his address by congratulating the college community for its dedicated service over the past 75 years. He described Fatima Mata National College as a temple of wisdom and a lighthouse of values, extending his best wishes for its continued growth and lasting impact on India’s educational and moral advancement.
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