President Murmu: 'Be Job Creators, Not Job Seekers' at Tribal University Convocation

President of India Droupadi Murmu on Tuesday urged students to become job creators rather than job seekers and dedicate themselves to the development of society and the nation.

Addressing the first convocation of the Central Tribal University in Visakhapatnam, she congratulated the graduating students, medal winners, faculty members and parents, describing the convocation as a milestone and the beginning of a greater responsibility towards society. She said a degree represents not only academic achievement but also an opportunity to contribute to nation-building.

The President, who was accompanied by Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan and State Education Minister Nara Lokesh, noted that nearly 40% of the graduates receiving degrees were women, while around 70% of the gold medal winners were women. She urged students to equip themselves with emerging skills to remain relevant in a rapidly changing world and advised them to look beyond textbooks by learning from their surroundings and developing practical skills. At the same time, they should remain connected to their communities, culture and traditions while working for the betterment of society and the nation.

Recalling that she was the first graduate from her village, Ms. Murmu said many students at the convocation were likely the first graduates in their families. She urged them to become pillars of strength for both their families and society. Quoting her father's advice, she said that while one should always move forward in life, it is equally important to look back and support those who are still struggling.

She said tribal universities should develop innovative systems to improve the livelihoods of tribal communities by promoting productive activities in areas such as forest produce, handicrafts, millets, medicinal plants, eco-tourism and local entrepreneurship.

The President expressed the hope that the Central Tribal University would emerge as a hub for nurturing self-confidence, leadership and policymaking capabilities among tribal youth. Institutions established with the objective of social justice, she said, also have a responsibility to work at the grassroots level in areas such as education, healthcare, skill development, livelihoods and forest rights. She expressed confidence that the university would contribute to the holistic development of youth from marginalised and tribal communities as well as the overall progress of the region.

Ms. Murmu said that as India advances rapidly, it is important to preserve the country's heritage while ensuring that the benefits of modern science reach every section of society. She noted that the university's Science and Technology Hub has been established to empower tribal communities in north Andhra Pradesh.

Referring to the goal of building Viksit Bharat by 2047, the President said the university could play a significant role through its inclusive, practical and environmentally conscious approach to education.