KOZHIKODE, Feb 17: Vice President M Venkaiah Naidu today called for furthering human resource development, and said since 65 per cent of India’s population was below 35 years of age, education institutes should seize the opportunity in shaping the future of the nation.
Addressing a function at Farook College here, he said education was an emancipatory tool that liberates citizens from dependence, restores self-confidence and enhances self-esteem.
Naidu asserted that all religious traditions emphasise on the value of knowledge and learning, and said in fact, the first word of the Holy Quran is “Iqra” or “read” and one of the prayers is “O My Lord, advance me in knowledge.”
The Bhagavad Gita also proclaims ‘Nahi Gnanena Sadrusham Pavitram Iha Vidyate,’ which means there is nothing in this world which is purer than knowledge, the vice president said.
Calling for furthering human resource development in the nation, Naidu said in fact the challenge before us was to enrich the human resource.
Pointing out that 65 per cent of country’s population was below 35 years of age, the vice-president said if we can impart the right kind of education, this can be a huge demographic dividend for the country.
“Our educational system, both government as well as private institutions, have to seize this unique opportunity to shape the future of our great country,” he observed.
Naidu wanted the educational institutions to provide varied and rich learning experiences, and said, “If we provide our children quality opportunities to acquire skills and knowledge, the country can make a quantum leap in terms of development.”
“If not, we may run the risk of a rapid decline in the growth process,” he said, adding, “If we don’t expand access to good education, we shall have widening gaps between different sections of our society which might negate economic progress.”
“So, our educational managers, teachers and researchers should help build a system that has equity and quality as the two guiding principles,” the vice president said.
Naidu also lauded the contribution made by the Rouzathul Uloom Association in the development of education in Kerala with its meritorious service to the community and the nation. (PTI)
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