Become creators, not just users of technology: UP Governor Anandiben Patel urges students at MGKVP convocation

Lucknow: Uttar Pradesh Governor Anandiben Patel on Tuesday urged students to become creators of technology rather than mere users, saying innovations should serve humanity, strengthen Indian languages, preserve the country's cultural heritage and address real societal challenges. Addressing the 48th convocation of Mahatma Gandhi Kashi Vidyapith (MGKVP) in Varanasi, the governor said India's linguistic diversity was its greatest cultural strength and education in the mother tongue enhanced students' confidence, creativity and capacity for innovation, according to a statement issued by the Jan Bhavan (formerly Raj Bhavan) here.

"Do not remain merely users of technology, become its creators. Develop technologies that serve humanity, strengthen Indian languages, preserve our cultural heritage and provide solutions to the real problems of society." Calling upon students to draw inspiration from Mahatma Gandhi, Patel said, "Mahatma Gandhi was not merely an individual but an idea. Through truth and non-violence, he showed the world that even an imperial power could be challenged without taking up arms and the course of history could be changed."

The governor said universities should produce young people who were knowledgeable, skilled and innovative while remaining rooted in Indian culture, traditions and social responsibility. Referring to India's growing global stature, she said an increasing number of foreign students were coming to Indian universities not only for degrees but also to understand the country's language, culture, philosophy, yoga, Ayurveda and literature. She also praised the revival of the 'shastrarth' (scholarly debate) tradition at Nalanda University as an important step towards restoring India's knowledge heritage, according to the statement.

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Urging students to contribute to environmental conservation, Patel said, "Make the 'Catch the Rain' campaign a people's movement. Every drop of rainwater saved today is an invaluable asset for future generations." She also stressed rainwater harvesting, conservation of water sources and large-scale plantation. Highlighting the role of youth in nation-building, she said, "The youth are India's greatest strength. A developed India can be built only through aware, responsible, service-oriented and determined young citizens."

She encouraged young people in the 15-29 age group to register on the 'My Bharat' app and participate in national development initiatives. Congratulating the degree and medal recipients, Patel noted that girls had outperformed boys in academic achievements and said their success reflected their talent, hard work and dedication. Patel expressed confidence that they would scale new heights and make significant contributions to society and the nation.