Pics: Spoorthi Ullal
Daijiworld Media Network - Mangaluru (MD)
Mangaluru, Sep 11: "Youths are the treasure of our country, they are capable of building the nation. Today's generation must leave laziness behind and try to achieve something big. You have the power to change the world," said Karnataka governor Vajubhai Rudabhai Vala.
He was addressing the gathering after inaugurating 'Prajna' value orientation programme organized for college lecturers by Ramakrishna Math, Mangaladevi here on Friday September 11.
He further said, "We have forgotten our culture and tradition. The present educational system teaches students to lead their life only with the future in mind. Without culture and tradition, education is waste. Teach good values to children. The future of our country lies in the hands of today's generation.
"There are a lot of people involved in corruption and scams. Those who are involved in these things have no culture. Live to help, live to lead the society. Students should have the mind or mentality to help the poor. You should have at least one mission in your life. We work for the betterment of the society. There is more power in our culture and tradition. Every person should live a happy life," he added.
Stressing on the value of a teacher, he said, "Even when the Prime Minister of India or any great person meets his former teacher or mentor, he bows in respect. No matter how much knowledge you have, if you are not able to utilize it for the good of the society, then you are not good enough.
Emphasizing the importance of educating the girl child, he said, "Who said women are weak? Pratibha Patil was the President of India. Never underestimate women. If a boy is educated, then it is equal to one person educated. If a girl is educated then it is equal to a whole family getting educated."
Swami Jitakamanandaji Maharaj, president of Ramakrishna Math said, "Awakening conscience in students was the goal of imparting education in older days. Now the students are taught to earn their livelihood. It is the first duty of parents to awaken the conscience in the minds of their kids and teachers have more responsiblity in guiding their students in the right path. If you compare our generation and today's generation, kids are more intelligent now, but they need the guidance."
Nitte University chancellor Dr N Vinay Hegde said, "Building India and taking it to greater heights is the responsibility of the youths. A teacher is a person who connects the past and the present to show the future. The greatest satisfaction you can have as teacher is when your old student recognises you anywhere at anytime."
MLC Capt Ganesh Karnik welcomed the guests. Swami Jitakamanandaji Maharaj felicitated and handed over a portrait of Swami Vivekananda to governor Vajubhai Vala on this occasion.
Swami Sarvasthanandaji proposed the vote of thanks.
Prior to the formal ceremony, Vajubhai Vala paid floral respects to Swami Vivekananda's potrait.
Swami Atmapriyananda, Prof K Byrappa and others were also present.