Emphasising the role of education in shaping not just intellect but also integrity, Uttar Pradesh Governor and Chancellor Anandiben Patel on Monday urged teachers to focus on character building along with imparting academic knowledge. Addressing the 29th convocation ceremony of Veer Bahadur Singh Purvanchal University (VBSPU) in Jaunpur, the Governor said that education should go beyond textbooks and examinations to nurture ethical, compassionate, and responsible citizens.
I am writing about this because character education is increasingly being recognised as a vital part of a student’s development. In a time when competition and technology dominate learning spaces, the Governor’s message serves as a timely reminder that education should help students grow as human beings who contribute positively to society. Her words underline a larger vision — that of education as a means to build both knowledge and values, laying the foundation for a stronger, more empathetic India.
Governor Highlights Importance of Research and Values
Governor Anandiben Patel, while addressing students and faculty at the convocation, stressed that both teachers and students must develop a passion for research. She said research not only strengthens academic progress but also plays a crucial role in solving real-world challenges that impact the nation and society.
“Teachers must not limit their role to teaching lessons from books. They must also guide students in developing moral strength, discipline, and compassion. Education without values is incomplete,” Patel said.
She also encouraged students to explore research areas that directly benefit communities, such as agriculture, health, rural development, and women’s empowerment.
Convocation Highlights
The 29th convocation ceremony at VBSPU, Jaunpur, was a grand occasion celebrating the achievements of students and scholars. On the occasion, Governor Patel presented 80 gold medals to 79 meritorious students from undergraduate and postgraduate programmes.
A total of 445 research scholars received PhD degrees, and two scholars were conferred DLitt degrees. This year, as many as 80,141 students from various academic courses were awarded degrees at the university.
In recognition of his contributions to the industry, the Governor also conferred an honorary DSc degree upon Sunil Dutt, President of Devices and Sales at Reliance Jio Infocomm Limited.
Teachers’ Role in Building Character
During her speech, Patel spoke extensively about the moral responsibility of educators in today’s society. She said teachers must help students understand values such as honesty, empathy, respect, and discipline. These, she noted, are as essential as academic success.
“Teachers shape the next generation. When they guide students to be not just educated but also ethical, they strengthen the social fabric of the nation,” she remarked.
She further noted that universities and schools should include activities like community service, leadership training, and environmental awareness programmes in their curriculum to foster overall development among students.
Research as a Driver of National Growth
Patel placed strong emphasis on the need for innovative and socially relevant research. She said that universities must serve as centres of innovation that address challenges faced by common people.
She encouraged students to take up projects that benefit rural communities and contribute to India’s progress toward self-reliance (Atmanirbharta). “Every student and teacher should see research as a tool to serve the nation,” she said.
According to her, the younger generation must focus on finding local solutions using science, technology, and entrepreneurship to improve the quality of life in villages and towns.
