Bhubaneswar: President Droupadi Murmu on Friday visited her alma mater Ramadevi Women’s University on the occasion of the varsity’s second convocation.
On the occasion, the President became emotional while recalling her old memories, dating four decades back, when she was a student of the prestigious educational institution (then RD Women’s College).
Speaking on the occasion, the President recalled her days – she spent in this University (then college) as a student. She said that she had studied in this institution for four years after completing her schooling at Unit-2 Girls School in Bhubaneswar.
The love and affection of the teachers of that time is unforgettable. She said that she is still in touch with many of classmates from that time. This great educational institution has always been a source of inspiration in her life.
Purnamasi Jani, a septuagenarian tribal spiritual leader in Odisha’s Kandhamal district, has had no formal education, yet she is credited with having composed over 50,000 devotional songs in Kui, Odia and Sanskrit. She was honored with Honorary Doctorate Degree(Honoris Causa) by the President of India.
The gifted Shrimati. Jani, known locally as Tadisaru Bai, has been awarded the Padma Shri in 2021. Principal Secretary Higher Education, Bishnupada Sethi, known for his love for poor, congratulated the Divine Lady.
“This institution will remain a source of inspiration in my life. I still remember the teachers who guided me in every aspect. I urge the students to take inspiration from legendary women personalities who took a champion role in the freedom struggle. There are a lot of other women who have excelled in different fields and have immensely contributed to the society,” said Shrimati Murmu.
Addressing the students of the University, the President said that they should feel proud as girl students, that is, as representatives of women. Women in India have played an important role since ages.
From management of family to governance of the country, from literature, music and dance to leadership, women have proved their mettle in every field. Women empowerment is no longer a slogan, it has become a reality to a large extent. Girls are not only at par with our boys, but in some fields they are even ahead of the boys, she said
The President said that India is the largest democracy in the world. It is heartening that the representation of women is increasing in all democratic institutions from Panchayats to Parliament.
“It is a great achievement of our democracy that for the first time the number of women parliamentarians has crossed 100. This is a good sign for the future of our democracy,” Shrimati Murmu said.
The President advised students to keep faith in their abilities. She said that after leaving the university campus, they would enter another university – the University of Life. To be successful in the University of Life, they must be aware of their strengths and abilities.
The President said that India aims to become a developed nation in the next 25 years. We all believe that in the year 2047, when India will celebrate the centenary of its independence, it will be one of the most prosperous nations in the world. It is the responsibility of the young generation to take India to the pinnacle of development during these 25 years.