Vadodara : In a momentous address at the 72nd convocation of Maharaja Sayajirao (MS) University of Baroda in Vadodara, Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel lauded the transformative impact of the new education policy spearheaded by Prime Minister Narendra Modi. The Chief Minister emphasized that the implementation of this policy has not only revived India's illustrious knowledge tradition but also showcased the influence of Maharaja Sayajirao Gaekwad's vision.
Mr. Patel underscored the promotion of education in the mother tongue, a significant aspect of the new policy, which has now extended into higher education across the country. He highlighted the intrinsic connection between Indian civilization, culture, and knowledge-centric values, emphasizing both mother tongue education and innovative research.
During the convocation ceremony, Chief Minister Patel presented gold medals to 345 outstanding students, including 231 female and 113 male students of the university. Additionally, he unveiled a book published by the university, further emphasizing the commitment to academic excellence.
Youth Empowerment and Budget Allocations
Referring to the golden era for the youth under Prime Minister Modi's leadership, Chief Minister Patel stressed the crucial role universities play in shaping and fostering youth power for the nation's development. He noted the numerous opportunities available to the country's youth, reflected in the Central Government's budget, with a substantial increase in the education budget by 7 percent.
With pride, Mr. Patel shared the State Government's commitment to education, allocating Rs 55114 crore in the state budget, marking a 26 percent increase in financial provisions for education. He highlighted the prioritization of education, along with support for the poor, youth, food providers, and women.
Investing in Future Technologies
The Chief Minister outlined key features of the budget, including a Rs 10 crore allocation for establishing a research park in the engineering college, aimed at accelerating futuristic and disruptive technologies. Another noteworthy allocation of Rs 35 crore was earmarked for the establishment of Centers of Excellence, Support Technology Centers in emerging areas such as Green Hydrogen Technology and Fintech in government engineering and polytechnic colleges.
Encouraging Graduates to Contribute to Society
Addressing fresh graduates, Bhupendra Patel emphasized that the professional journey begins with obtaining a degree, urging them to utilize their education to benefit society. He stressed the importance of finding solutions to problems and creating employment opportunities through the knowledge gained at the university.
Commitment to Prime Minister Modi's Vision
Concluding his address, Chief Minister Patel called for contributions to realizing Prime Minister Modi's vision of developing India by 2047. He expressed the state government's commitment to building a developed Gujarat and a developed India through skilled youth power, aiming for Gujarat to host at least one among the world's top 100 educational institutions and ten among the best 250 educational institutions globally.
In a touching tribute, Bhupendra Patel began his address by remembering and praising Maharaja Sayajirao for his significant contributions to the field of education.
