Erode, Aug. 29: Vice President C. P. Radhakrishnan on Saturday called for greater emphasis on research, innovation and stronger partnerships between educational institutions and industry, saying these areas would be critical to India’s long-term development.
Speaking at the Founders’ Day programme of the Kongu Vellalar Institute of Technology Trust in Perundurai, Erode, Radhakrishnan said institutions of higher education should move beyond traditional classroom teaching and develop into centres capable of generating knowledge, supporting advanced research and promoting innovation.
He attended the programme as the chief guest and also participated in the inauguration of Arivukudam, a research-oriented initiative aimed at strengthening knowledge creation and technological development.The Vice President urged students and young professionals to continuously update their knowledge and acquire skills suited to a rapidly changing technological environment.
He encouraged young people to adopt a research-oriented approach and actively participate in innovation and patent development.
He said the next generation should prepare for emerging fields, including artificial intelligence, robotics, semiconductor technology, quantum technology, biotechnology and digital technologies, which are expected to have an increasing influence on economies and societies worldwide.
Emphasising the need to adapt to change, Radhakrishnan advised young people to recognise their individual strengths, define clear objectives and remain committed to their goals rather than comparing themselves with others.He also highlighted the potential benefits of yoga and meditation in maintaining mental balance and improving concentration.
The Vice President praised the contribution of the 41 founders of the KVIT Trust and noted that institutions associated with the trust have provided education to nearly one lakh people. He said their efforts had made a significant contribution to the expansion of educational opportunities in the Kongu region.
He also appreciated the institutions’ academic and international connections with countries such as Germany, the United States, France and Japan.Calling for stronger cooperation between academia and industry, Radhakrishnan said research institutions and businesses must work together more closely to convert new ideas and scientific research into practical technologies and solutions.
During the event, memorandums of understanding were exchanged between Anchor Industries and Arivukudam Research Park, signalling efforts to deepen cooperation between the industrial and academic sectors.The Vice President also visited an exhibition organised by the Technology Business Incubator of Kongu Engineering College, where innovators displayed a range of projects and technological solutions.
He expressed confidence that Arivukudam would emerge as an important centre for research and innovation and contribute to knowledge creation, social development and national progress.
Radhakrishnan also honoured distinguished individuals associated with the college and the trust. He unveiled plaques marking several upcoming initiatives, including Arivukudam Research Park, a Pharmacy College, the Kongu Naturopathy and Yoga Medical College, and a cloud kitchen project of the KVIT Trust.
Tamil Nadu and Kerala Governor Rajendra Vishwanath Arlekar, Supreme Court Justice M. M. Sundresh, KVIT Trust Chairman Devarajan and other dignitaries attended the programme.
The Vice President’s address underlined the importance of building a research-driven education system and preparing India’s youth for emerging technologies, while strengthening industry-academia partnerships to support innovation and sustainable national development.
