The President of India, Smt Droupadi Murmu, graced the convocation ceremony of Ravenshaw University at Cuttack, Odisha, today (July 15, 2025).

Speaking on the occasion, the President said that this educational institution was an active center of the freedom struggle and associated with the movement for the formation of the state of Odisha. This institution has been continuously making invaluable contributions to the development of education and women's empowerment. Many of its former students have increased the prestige of India as freedom fighters, educationists, litterateurs, philosophers, political leaders, social reformers, scientists and artists.

The President was happy to note that Ravenshaw University is making remarkable strides in research, innovation, and inclusivity. It has extended its expertise to numerous industry partners through consultancy services and technology transfers. Its ‘Centre of Design, Innovation and Entrepreneurship’ promotes ideation, translational research, and entrepreneurship. She also noted that the University is focusing on increasing the enrollment of students from tribal areas, underprivileged groups, and the divyangjan.

The President said that this is the era of science and technology. Artificial Intelligence, Machine Learning, 3D Printing and Cloud Computing have brought about a vast change in our thinking and working style. She was happy to note that this University is making good use of these technologies. She advised all to be careful about the misuse of these advanced technologies.

The President said that our country is going through Amrit Kaal. Making India a developed nation by the year 2047 is our national goal. The sense of nation first is our biggest strength. Our soldiers, farmers, scientists, engineers, doctors and people active in various fields are working with the sentiment of increasing the pride of India. She urged students to take inspiration from them and contribute in the development of the country with their knowledge, skills and devotion.

In the next event, the President laid the foundation stone for the redevelopment of three buildings of Ravenshaw Girls' High School at Cuttack.

In her brief remarks on the occasion, the President said that the quality of teaching and good infrastructure create a good educational environment. She expressed confidence that on completion of the redevelopment project, the facilities of this school will become even better. She appreciated the Central and State governments for this project related to the education of girls.

The President said that during various convocation ceremonies, she noted that girls perform better when given equal facilities and opportunities. She highlighted that women are contributing actively in every field- be it education and literature or science, technology, industry and commerce. She advised girl students to take inspiration from the women who are setting new standards of success in various fields. She said that they could achieve even the impossible on the strength of their knowledge, self-confidence, skill and determination.

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MJPS/SR/SKS