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Kottayam, Oct 23 (IANS) President Draupadi Murmu on Thursday lauded St. Thomas College, Palai for its 75-year-long contribution to Kerala’s higher education and social transformation and described the institution as a workshop where “destinies are shaped.”
Addressing the platinum jubilee celebrations, the President appreciated the college’s emphasis on holistic education, sustainability and inclusivity.
“With its focus on intellectual pursuits guided by moral compass, the college promotes the sanctity of life, the light of knowledge and love for humanity – values that are universal and eternal,” he said, referring to the college’s emblem, which bears the Latin words for “life, light and love.”
Highlighting the strong educational traditions of Kerala, the President recalled the social reform movements that originated in Kottayam, including the historic Vaikom Satyagraha.
He also paid tribute to literacy pioneers like PN Panikkar, whose “Vayichu Valaruga” (Read and Grow) message inspired Kerala’s famous library movement.
“The power of literacy, education and knowledge has made Kerala a leader in human development,” he said.
The President urged the students to draw inspiration from the glorious heritage of the region, ranging from the establishment of India’s earliest printing press in Kottayam to the achievements of distinguished alumni of St. Thomas College, including former Chief Justice of India KG Balakrishnan and volleyball legend Jimmy George.
Referring to his previous visit to Thiruvananthapuram, where he had unveiled the statue of former President KR Narayanan, the President said his life exemplified the “democratic spirit of India” and the transformative power of education.
Situated on the banks of river Meenachil, St. Thomas College has contributed significantly to the knowledge ecosystem of Kerala by providing quality education to students from rural backgrounds, he said.
The President said, “As the country moves towards a developed India 2047, I am confident that this institution will continue to pave the way for an equitable and enlightened society.”
President Murmu has been in the state for the last three days. She will spend Thursday at the famous Kumarakom tourist spot and return to Delhi on Friday.
–IANS
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