Punjab Governor urges students to become job creators, not seekers
While stressing on the importance of start-ups, Governor Gulab Chand Kataria highlighted the responsibility of institutions and society to nurture entrepreneurship
Punjab Governor Gulab Chand Kataria on Friday urged graduating students to shift their mindset from seeking jobs to creating them during the third convocation ceremony of Maharaja Ranjit Singh Punjab Technical University in Bathinda.
“Do not become job seekers, become job providers,” he said, stressing the importance of start-ups, entrepreneurship and innovation. He added that every individual possesses immense potential, and it is the responsibility of institutions and society to nurture it effectively.
Highlighting key challenges faced by Punjab, the Governor pointed out that unemployment remains one of the state’s most pressing issues. He also expressed concern over drug abuse, calling it a major factor adversely affecting the youth.
Kataria emphasised that hatred towards those struggling with addiction is not a solution. “Efforts must instead focus on rehabilitation and connecting them with employment opportunities so they do not relapse into substance abuse,” he said.
Speaking about the impact of drug addiction, he noted that the loss of young lives devastates families and weakens society as a whole. He urged citizens to reflect on their responsibilities and take collective action to address the crisis.
Recalling Punjab’s rich legacy of bravery and sacrifice, the Governor highlighted the contributions of its people to the nation. Referring to the sacrifices of Sikh Gurus, he underlined the resilience and strength that define the state.
He concluded by posing a question to the audience, “Can we not come together to build a stronger, drug-free and self-reliant Punjab?”
Later, while interacting with the media, he said that if educational institutions, be it primary schools or others, take initiative, the results would be visible in the next five years.
The Governor also spoke about India’s growing defence capabilities referring to the ‘Operation Sindoor’ and economic progress, expressing confidence that the country would emerge as a “Vishwa Guru” by 2047.
