Dumka, Nov 5: Jharkhand Governor and Chancellor Santosh Kumar Gangwar on Thursday urged graduating students and research scholars of Sido Kanhu Murmu University (SKMU) to pledge to educate at least one person deprived of learning opportunities due to socio-economic constraints.
Addressing the university’s convocation ceremony at the Convention Centre in Dumka, Gangwar said even small efforts, such as motivating a child to attend school, supporting the education of a needy student or teaching someone to read and write, could bring significant changes to society. Knowledge, he said, becomes an instrument of wider social transformation when it is shared with others.
Congratulating the graduating students and research scholars, the Governor said their achievements were the result of years of hard work, guidance from teachers and the sacrifices and support of their parents. He emphasised that a degree should not be considered the destination of one’s journey but the beginning of a new chapter.
Education, he said, should not merely prepare individuals for personal success but also make them responsible citizens. Honesty, discipline, humility and sensitivity towards society were essential qualities for a meaningful and successful life.
As Chancellor, Gangwar stressed that student welfare must remain at the centre of the university’s policies and decisions. He called for quality teaching, regular classes, effective academic guidance and adequate facilities, including libraries and laboratories.
He also emphasised the need for timely academic sessions, examinations and declaration of results, warning that unnecessary delays could affect students’ higher education, competitive examination preparations and employment prospects. The university should maintain a clear academic calendar and ensure its strict implementation, while examination and result-related procedures must remain transparent, systematic and timely.
Stressing accountability in university administration, the Governor said students’ time was directly linked to their future and that institutional transparency must be ensured at every level.
Recalling the historical significance of the university’s name, Gangwar said SKMU was named after the legendary tribal leaders Sido and Kanhu, who played a pivotal role in the Santhal Hul of 1855-56. The uprising, he said, remains a symbol of courage, self-respect and unity against injustice and exploitation.
He also recalled the contributions of Chand Bhairav, Phoolo and Jhano, saying their struggles continued to inspire people to protect their culture, identity and dignity.
Highlighting the rich tribal heritage of Santhal Pargana, the Governor said its languages, traditions and folklore were invaluable assets that must be preserved alongside progress in modern education, science, technology and research. He urged the university to encourage research addressing local needs, particularly in agriculture, healthcare, environment, education and rural development, so that academic knowledge could directly benefit society.
Referring to India’s vision of becoming a developed nation by 2047, Gangwar said the youth would play a crucial role in achieving the goal of ‘Viksit Bharat @ 2047’. He highlighted the ‘Vocal for Local’ initiative and called for greater promotion of local products, artisans, traditional skills and entrepreneurs.
Describing Jharkhand’s youth as talented and capable, he encouraged them to use their knowledge, skills, innovation and entrepreneurial abilities to create new opportunities and contribute to the state’s development. He said young people should not limit themselves to seeking employment but also develop the capacity to generate employment opportunities for others.
The Governor urged students to set ambitious goals, remain committed to learning and uphold honesty in their professional and personal lives. He said individual achievements should also contribute to society’s progress and encouraged graduates to remain connected to their cultural roots and communities.
Gangwar also extended greetings to the people on the upcoming festivals of Diwali and Chhath.
