If India has to become self-sufficient and develop by 2047, young people should give a new direction to society through their talent, innovation and entrepreneurship, said Governor Thaawarchand Gehlot.
“The younger generation should strive to become job providers rather than job seekers,” he told graduates at the 16th convocation of the JSS Academy of Higher Education and Research (JSSAHER) in Mysuru on Sunday in the presence of vice-president CP Radhakrishnan.
Congratulating the graduates, the governor said, “This is one of the most precious moments of your life. You enter society as architects of a new India, a torch of humanity and messengers of hope. With the knowledge and skills you have acquired, I am confident that you will face the challenges and make the most of the opportunities.”
Quoting former Indian President Sarvepalli Radhakrishnan, Mr Gehlot reminded the students that “the purpose of education is to develop excellence in the individual”.
Citing Swami Vivekananda’s call “arise, awake and do not stop until the goal is achieved”, the governor urged the students to put the knowledge into practice and contribute towards building a developed nation. “Today, India is entering a new era of innovation and research with huge opportunities in healthcare, biotechnology, pharma, artificial intelligence and sustainable development. This is your time to learn, create and give back to society,” he said.
The governor also said that India has been a “beacon of knowledge for thousands of years”, pointing out that the “Vedas, Upanishads, Ayurveda, Yoga, Vastu, philosophy and law” are “our priceless heritage”.
The National Education Policy 2020 reintroduced these streams of ancient wisdom into modern education, he said, while urging the youth to understand these disciplines in today’s context, conduct research and present their relevance on the global stage.
Highlighting Karnataka’s leadership in education, information and technology, Mr Gehlot noted that the state is home to several world-class institutions and research centres, including JSS. “Institutions like JSS have played a key role in making Mysuru and Bengaluru two of India’s premier educational hubs,” he said.
Paying tribute to Shivaratri Rajendra Swami, the Governor said that the former was not only a religious leader but also a visionary and a compassionate thinker who championed the cause of ‘Akshara Dasoha’ (Education), ‘Anna Dasoha’ (Food and Accommodation) and ‘Arogya Dasoha’ (Health Care).
Mr. Gehlot also appreciated the efforts of the current seer of Shivaratri Deshikendra Swami, who is the 24th Pontiff of Suttur Mutt, for continuing this noble legacy and taking the mutt’s services and influence to global heights.
“Shivaratri Deshikendra Mahaswami’s vision transformed the mutt into a world-class institution integrating education, healthcare and research with human values,” the governor added.
Shivaratri Deshikendra Swami, who is also the Chancellor of JSSAHER; and Justice (retired) Shivaraj Patil, former Supreme Court judge; were among the dignitaries present for the occasion.
A total of 2,925 students were awarded degrees, diplomas and scholarships during the convocation ceremony, with 16 gold medalists from various academic disciplines being felicitated.
Published – 9 Nov 2025 20:41 IST
