Lucknow: At the seventh convocation ceremony of Maharishi University of Information Technology in Lucknow, the capital of Uttar Pradesh, Governor Anandiben Patel offered valuable advice to students on life, relationships, and personal responsibilities.
She emphasized that there is nothing wrong with forming relationships or choosing a life partner in modern society. However, she stressed that if someone makes a promise of marriage, they must honor that commitment with sincerity and loyalty.
The Governor expressed serious concern over incidents in which young women become mothers at an early age and are subsequently abandoned. She advised young people to prioritize their careers and achieve financial independence before considering marriage so that they can effectively fulfill their family responsibilities in the future.
During the convocation ceremony, a total of 2,279 students from various disciplines were awarded degrees and diplomas in recognition of their academic achievements. Of these, 20 scholars received PhD degrees, 324 students were awarded postgraduate degrees, and 1,612 received undergraduate degrees. Additionally, 323 students were awarded diplomas.
A special mini-expo was also organized on the university campus to mark the occasion. The exhibition showcased innovative projects and developments in robotics, modern technology, yoga, Vedic science, and animation.
In her address, Governor Anandiben Patel emphasized that no child in the state should be deprived of education due to financial difficulties. She urged educational institutions and universities to take proactive steps to support underprivileged children and ensure equal access to educational opportunities.
She also highlighted an initiative under which universities across the state have adopted five villages each. University representatives regularly visit these villages to identify children in need and help integrate them into the mainstream education system.
Referring to another initiative aimed at educating 450 children living in slum areas, the Governor noted that the sustained efforts of teachers have brought about positive changes in the children’s behavior, habits, and lifestyles.
Recalling her experiences during her tenure in Gujarat, Anandiben Patel spoke about an initiative she had undertaken to improve children’s nutrition by providing nutritious foods such as gram and jaggery at Anganwadi centers. She emphasized the importance of proper nutrition in ensuring children’s healthy growth and overall development.
Higher Education Minister Yogendra Upadhyay, who also attended the ceremony, stated that the true purpose of education extends beyond imparting textbook knowledge. He emphasized that education should contribute to shaping students’ personalities, character, values, and conduct.
The minister also stressed the importance of maintaining dignity and restraint in public discourse, particularly during public gatherings, demonstrations, and protests. Expressing concern over the growing tendency toward inappropriate language and behavior in society, he urged young people to uphold civility, discipline, and moral values.
The convocation ceremony concluded with a strong message encouraging students to pursue professional excellence, financial independence, social responsibility, and ethical values as they prepare for the next phase of their lives.
