President Droupadi Murmu graces the convocation ceremony of Guru Nanak Dev University.
Photo Credit: PIB
New Delhi, January 15, 2026: President of India Droupadi Murmu on Thursday graced and addressed the convocation ceremony of Guru Nanak Dev University (GNDU) in Amritsar, Punjab, urging students to combine professional excellence with moral values and social responsibility.
Addressing graduating students, the President said that after completing formal education, students would pursue diverse paths—ranging from government and private sector jobs to higher education, research, entrepreneurship, and teaching.
While each field demands specific skills, she emphasized that certain qualities are essential for success in all professions.
These include a lifelong desire to learn, unwavering integrity and honesty even in difficult circumstances, the courage to embrace change, the ability to learn from failures, teamwork, disciplined use of time and resources, and a commitment to using knowledge for the greater good of society and the nation.
President Droupadi Murmu says education is meant to serve society and the country:
President Droupadi Murmu reminded students that education is not merely a means of earning a livelihood, but also a powerful instrument to serve society and the country.
She said that graduates owe a debt to society for contributing to their education and can repay it by working to uplift those left behind in the development process.
Highlighting India’s progress over the past decade, President Droupadi Murmu said the country has made significant strides in technology and entrepreneurship.
She noted that young people today have vast opportunities across sectors ranging from agriculture to artificial intelligence, and from defence to space.
President Droupadi Murmu added that higher acceleration of this growth can be achieved by promoting research, strengthening industry-academia collaboration, and encouraging socially relevant innovation. She stressed that educational institutions like GNDU have a crucial role in guiding young people in the right direction and contributing to a lasting solution.
The next two decades are crucial for Vikshit Bharat:
President Droupadi Murmu said the next two decades would be crucial in achieving the vision of ‘Viksit Bharat’ and the country’s future depends on young people with a scientific temper, responsible conduct, and a spirit of selfless service.
She urged educational institutions to inculcate these values and encouraged students to choose professions that strengthen the nation and reinforce human values.
President Droupadi Murmu noted with satisfaction that Guru Nanak Dev University was established during the 500th birth anniversary of Guru Nanak Dev Ji, and that his teachings and values continue to guide the institution.
She described Guru Nanak Dev Ji’s ideals as a shared heritage that offers solutions to many of society’s challenges.
She also highlighted Guru Nanak Dev Ji’s emphasis on gender equality and praised the university’s efforts toward women’s empowerment.
She expressed happiness over the significant participation of female students among degree and medal recipients at the convocation, stating that empowering women with confidence and opportunities is vital for the progress of society and the nation.
EOM.