Think beyond competitive examinations, Vice-President Jagdeep Dhankhar advises students

New Delhi February 20

Addressing the 37th convocation of Indira Gandhi National Open University (IGNOU) on Tuesday, Vice-President Jagdeep Dhankhar said students today must think beyond competitive examinations to get a position in the government and explore other opportunities, which are now available aplenty.

Coaching classes not temples of knowledge

Coaching classes are an example of ‘status quo’ rather than true intellectual exposition; innovation comes from thinking differently. — Jagdeep Dhankhar, Vice-President

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Dhankhar highlighted India’s transformation, shedding the label of the “sleeping giant” and experiencing continuous growth. He urged young minds not to be consumed by competitive pressures or the sole ambition of securing a government position. Instead, he encouraged them to foster imagination and creativity, reminding them that some of the most significant innovations stem from those who dare to challenge the status quo. He advised the youngsters to let go of doubts and insecurities and instead use the mind as a parking place for great ideas.

The Vice-President emphasised the significance of governance embracing transparency and commended India’s economic progress, stating, “On the economic front, our story is one of remarkable dynamism. Negotiating difficult terrain and tough challenges, we have traversed from being a ‘Fragile Five’ global economy to the glorious status of being the fifth-largest economy, with aspirations to reach the third position in the global economy in the coming years.”

He urged graduates to explore opportunities, establish startups, and lead with innovation, highlighting that failure is a stepping stone to success, especially in the face of disruptive technologies like the Internet of Things, artificial intelligence, and quantum computing.

The Vice-President emphasised that failures are steps towards further success, citing the example of Chandrayaan-3, which would not have been possible without Chandrayaan-2. He remarked, “Chandrayaan-2 was not a failure; it was mainly a success. Chandrayaan-3 fructified it.”

Addressing the graduates, he emphasised the importance of young minds contributing to areas such as quantum computing, green hydrogen mission, artificial intelligence, blockchain and machine learning. He highlighted India’s prowess in innovation, surpassing the per capita mobile data consumption of China and the US combined. He also praised the success of Chandrayaan-3, symbolising India’s relentless pursuit of scientific and technological advancements. During the ceremony, an impressive 3.08 lakh degrees/diplomas/certificates were conferred.

Professor Nageshwar Rao, Vice-Chancellor, IGNOU, stated, “We have been steadfastly advancing towards the vision outlined in the National Education Policy 2020, particularly in embracing multidisciplinary and holistic education. Our commitment extends to various domains such as vocational and skill-based education, research and innovation, promotion of Indian languages and ICT-enabled education. IGNOU has been unwavering in its mission to provide access to higher education, thereby fostering equity in our society through inclusion. These endeavours underscore our dedication to realising the transformative goals set forth in the National Education Policy 2020.”