‘Value-based education is the need of the hour’

Governor R.N. Ravi conferred degrees on graduands at the 57th annual convocation of Madurai Kamaraj University on Friday.

A total of 62,030 candidates received their degrees. It includes 190 Ph.D, 2 D.Sc and 1 D.Litt. Further, 161 candidates were felicitated with medals for their academic performance.

In his chief guest address, former ISRO Chairman K. Sivan said the need of the hour was value-based education which was essential for the growth of the nation. Not just book-based knowledge, but value-based knowledge was important to teach a person how to handle problems and also improve society. A holistic approach was required, he said.

He told the graduands that there were many challenges ahead. He advised them to overcome fear and not hesitate to take risks. One may fail in the process. But should not get bothered by it. You should take bold steps and take things forward, he told them.

Referring to the startup culture, he advised the graduands to become entrepreneurs rather than wait for jobs. There were a lot of opportunities. You should make discoveries and invent things, he advised them.

Mr. Sivan said Madurai Kamaraj University was established to provide value-based education. The university was imparting quality education and contributed immensely in nation building. He wished them good luck for their future endeavours.

Commissioner of Collegiate Education and Convener of MKU Syndicate Committee E. Sundaravalli welcomed the gathering and presented the university annual report.

The report highlighted the new initiatives taken by MKU in digital education, research funding, institutional support mechanisms, MKU – RUSA (Rashtriya Uchchatar Shiksha Abhiyan) projects and the development of a research park aimed at strengthening the innovation ecosystem.

Registrar (in-charge) M. Ramakrishnan, Controller of Examinations S. Muthiah and others were present. Minister for Higher Education Govi Chezhiaan, Pro-Chancellor of the university, was not present.