Dharmendra Pradhan stresses skills alongside education at Sambalpur University convocation

Former Union Education Minister and Sambalpur MP Dharmendra Pradhan urged graduates to pair academic learning with practical skills at the 36th convocation of Sambalpur University on Monday. He said education must be complemented by skills to create true competence and equip young people to meet society’s changing needs. Pradhan highlighted individual responsibility as vital for protecting rights and security, and called on youth to preserve the region’s ancient heritage while embracing emerging technologies. He also expressed hope that the university would become a leading centre for research, social studies and skill development through collaboration with the National Research Foundation.

What did Pradhan say about the link between education and skills?

Pradhan said the knowledge and skills gained at universities should inspire young people to shoulder greater responsibility towards society, adding that individual responsibility was vital to protecting the rights and security of people. He congratulated the graduates, postgraduates, diploma holders and gold medallists, and commended their teachers and parents for supporting their achievements.

How should students prepare for future technological and societal challenges?

Describing Sambalpur University and its campus as important centres of personality development, Pradhan said the world was undergoing rapid change driven by disruptive technologies and artificial intelligence. He advised students to combine deep reading with the judicious use of emerging technologies to address new challenges facing society and the region.

What role does cultural heritage play in his vision for youth?

Referring to ancient rock paintings at Asurgarh and Bhima Mandali in Bargarh, Pradhan said the Mahanadi basin contained scientific evidence of civilisations dating back thousands of years. He urged the younger generation to preserve and carry forward this rich heritage rather than confining its aspirations to personal and family advancement, noting that with Odisha set to celebrate the centenary of its formation in 2036 and India the centenary of Independence in 2047, the youth must take on a greater role in shaping the future of the State and the country. Pradhan expressed hope that Sambalpur University would emerge as a leading institution in research, social studies and skill development through collaboration with the National Research Foundation, while its students would contribute to building the country’s intellectual capital.

Odisha Governor Dr Hari Babu Kambhampati and Higher Education, Sports and Youth Affairs Minister Suryabanshi Suraj were among those present at the convocation.