The statement by Tamil Nadu School Education Minister Anbil Mahesh Poyyamozhi has caught wide public attention, especially his remark that the degrees he earned through hard work, such as his M.C.A. and Ph.D., will stay with him for life, unlike any ministerial chair. His words brought the focus back to the real value of education at a time when academic pursuits often take a back seat to political and social privileges.
I felt it was important to write about this because his message goes beyond politics. It reminds students, parents, and teachers that real progress comes from learning, not from temporary titles. When a public leader openly says that educational qualifications have more permanence than any government post, it encourages a healthier mindset toward academics and long-term personal growth. This reminder is needed in today’s time, where success is often judged by quick recognition rather than sustained learning.
What the Minister Said and Why It Matters
During a recent public programme, Anbil Mahesh Poyyamozhi shared his personal view that while he may be an MLA and a Minister today, these roles are temporary. According to him, the only thing that will stay with him till his last day are the degrees he earned. By calling education “imperishable wealth,” he highlighted that learning builds a foundation that no one can take away.
His words resonate strongly because they come from someone who has experienced both educational success and political responsibility. In many homes, children are told that good marks and qualifications can change their future. Hearing the same message from a minister strengthens that belief, especially for students who look up to public leaders for guidance.
Education as a Lifelong Asset
The idea that learning continues to benefit us throughout life is something we often understand only later. Minister Poyyamozhi pointed out that:
- A degree represents years of personal discipline and commitment
- Knowledge opens opportunities beyond the limitations of family background
- Education makes a person independent, confident, and respected
- Unlike political positions, educational achievements cannot be transferred, replaced, or removed
For students who are the first in their family to pursue higher education, such statements reinforce that their effort is meaningful and valued.
Why This Message Matters for Today’s Students
Students today face pressure from competition, social expectations, and the constant comparison brought by online platforms. Many feel that immediate success or fame is more important than long-term learning. This is where the minister’s words become relevant. By saying that education gives lasting dignity, he brings the focus back to what truly shapes an individual.
Schools and colleges are not just places to score marks. They shape a person’s thinking, behaviour, and problem-solving ability. These qualities help individuals succeed in every field, including entrepreneurship, government service, technology, teaching, and creative industries.
Examples from Real Life
Across Tamil Nadu and the rest of the country, many professionals credit their degrees for changing their lives. For example:
- First-generation graduates who secure government or private sector jobs
- Students from rural areas who use scholarships to reach top universities
- Working professionals who pursue M.Phil. or Ph.D. degrees later in life to grow in their career
In each of these cases, titles or temporary positions did not transform their lives. It was education that gave them long-term stability and recognition.
The Role of the School Education Department
His comment also reflects the school education department’s larger focus on improving access and quality. Over the past few years, government schools in Tamil Nadu have seen developments in:
- Smart classrooms
- New learning methods
- Career guidance
- Skill-based programmes
- Teacher training
These efforts aim to make education meaningful and relevant for today’s generation.
A Broader Message for Parents and Teachers
Parents often worry about exam results, job security, and competition. But the minister’s words remind us that the real aim of schooling is to prepare children for life. Teachers also play a crucial role in shaping how students look at learning. When leaders highlight the dignity that education brings, it supports teachers and motivates students to take their studies seriously.


















