Education is a powerful tool for social transformation, says Maharashtra Legislative Council Chairman at MIT-ADT University’s 11th Foundation Day
PUNE: Indian youth have the potential to lead the world as rapid technological advancements open up new opportunities in artificial intelligence, robotics, data science, space research, digital technology and design, Maharashtra Legislative Council Chairman Prof Ram Shinde said.
Speaking at the 11th Foundation Day celebrations of MIT Art, Design and Technology (MIT-ADT) University at Vishwarajbagh, Loni-Kalbhor, Shinde said education was not merely a means of career development but a powerful instrument of social transformation.
“A first graduate in a family does not merely shape his or her own future but opens the path to progress for the entire family,” he said.
Shinde said knowledge needed to be accompanied by practical skills, character and social responsibility. “Technology can be highly advanced, but no technology can replace humanity,” he said.
Referring to the National Education Policy, he said efforts were underway to make education more skill-oriented, research-driven and aligned with global standards. Institutions such as MIT-ADT University, he added, had an important role in promoting research, innovation, startups and entrepreneurship.
“I am confident that students graduating from such institutions will not merely be job seekers but job creators,” Shinde said.
MIT-ADT University Executive President and Acting Vice-Chancellor Prof Dr Mangesh Karad said rapid technological advancement had brought the world closer and made it possible to access information and opportunities at the click of a button.
“Students as well as faculty members will have to adapt to technologies such as artificial intelligence. We need to develop a research-oriented mindset among students,” Karad said. He added that universities must focus on entrepreneurship, innovation and globally relevant skills rather than limiting education to conventional learning.
Former Director General of the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) Padma Shri Prof Dr Balram Bhargava said India had made significant progress in areas including agriculture, space, nuclear research, defence and healthcare. He highlighted India's role as a major supplier of generic medicines and said Indian doctors and nurses were serving across the world.
MAEER’s MIT Group Founder President Prof Dr Vishwanath D. Karad emphasised the importance of combining technology with value-based education and said science and spirituality should progress together.
During the ceremony, MANET Principal Capt Prerit Mishra was conferred the Lifetime Achievement Award for his contribution to the university’s development. Several other faculty members and contributors were also honoured.
The programme began with a World Peace Prayer and concluded with the national anthem.
