Kerala Governor Rajendra Vishwanath Arlekar on Monday underscored that education must serve as an instrument of social transformation, not merely as a means to secure employment. Speaking at the third convocation ceremony of the Digital University Kerala (DUK) on October 6, 2025, Mr. Arlekar, who also serves as the Chancellor of the university, encouraged the graduating students to look beyond personal success and focus on contributing to the nation’s progress. “You will be judged by what you are doing for society,” he said, urging them to embrace social responsibility as they embark on their professional journeys.
I am writing about this because the Governor’s words remind us that education’s true purpose extends far beyond degrees and jobs. In a time when learning is increasingly career-centric, his message brings the focus back to community, ethics, and responsibility. The call for socially conscious education is particularly relevant today, as India moves toward digital innovation and inclusive growth. His address at DUK highlights how graduates, especially from technology-driven institutions, can play a vital role in shaping a just and equitable society.
Education as a Tool for Social Change
During his convocation address, Governor Arlekar said that education should empower individuals to become change-makers rather than job-seekers. He emphasised that true education transforms both the individual and society, creating citizens who think critically and act compassionately.
“Education cannot be confined to classrooms or examinations. It should prepare students to engage meaningfully with the world around them,” the Governor said. He urged graduates to use their knowledge and skills for the collective good, especially in areas such as rural development, sustainability, and digital inclusion.
Convocation Highlights
The third convocation ceremony of Digital University Kerala, held at its Thiruvananthapuram campus, celebrated the achievements of several postgraduate and doctoral students. Degrees were awarded to students from programmes in data science, digital technology, and computational studies, among others.
Vice Chancellor Dr. Saji Gopinath highlighted the university’s efforts to make Kerala a global hub for digital education and innovation. He noted that the institution’s focus on interdisciplinary learning and industry collaboration is helping create a new generation of skilled professionals ready to contribute to India’s digital economy.
The Governor’s Message to Graduates
Governor Arlekar’s speech went beyond conventional convocation themes, touching on values and social impact. He reminded students that success is not only measured by professional milestones but also by the positive difference one makes in society.
“You are privileged to be educated in a digital university that represents the future of learning. But with privilege comes responsibility — to use your education for those who may not have the same opportunities,” he said.
He called on the graduates to remain humble, compassionate, and socially aware as they step into their careers. “Technology and innovation are powerful tools, but their true worth lies in how they uplift people and strengthen communities,” he added.
Digital University Kerala’s Growing Impact
Established with the goal of advancing digital transformation in education, DUK has become a leading centre for innovation, technology, and data-driven learning in India. The university integrates academic research with real-world applications in areas like AI, cybersecurity, and digital governance.
At the convocation, several speakers highlighted DUK’s role in fostering inclusive digital education that reaches underserved populations. Through collaborations with industry and government, the university is developing digital tools to improve access to education, healthcare, and governance services across Kerala.
Encouraging Research and Innovation
Governor Arlekar also stressed the need for continuous learning and research, noting that innovation is key to national development. “Research is not only about laboratories and experiments; it is also about finding new ways to address social problems,” he said.
He encouraged DUK scholars to focus on projects that can create social and economic value, particularly in areas such as sustainable technology, renewable energy, and digital literacy.
Vice Chancellor Dr. Gopinath echoed this sentiment, noting that DUK’s academic model encourages experiential learning, where students engage directly with industries and communities to apply their research in practical ways.
