Education must create job creators, not job seekers”: Assam Governor at KKHSOU convocation

Syllad | The Rising MeghalayaMarch 3, 2025

Assam Governor Lakshman Prasad Acharya lauded Krishna Kanta Handiqui State Open University (KKHSOU) for its immense contribution to higher education, particularly in providing learning opportunities to students from remote and economically disadvantaged backgrounds.

Speaking at the 7th Convocation of the university, held at its Resham Nagar campus in Khanapara, the Governor praised KKHSOU’s alignment with NEP 2020’s vision of achieving a 50% Gross Enrollment Ratio (GER) in higher education by 2035. He noted with pride that over 50% of the university’s students hail from rural areas, a testament to its mission of making education accessible.

Reflecting on the broader purpose of education, Acharya urged graduates to move beyond traditional career paths, saying, “Education is not just about books; it is about gaining wisdom in all aspects of life. It opens doors to immense opportunities. But students must not stop at seeking jobs—they must strive to be job creators and contribute to the nation’s progress.”

He paid tribute to the university’s namesake, Krishna Kanta Handiqui, emphasizing that his legacy lives on through the institution, which continues to empower students through flexible learning programs.

Among the 12,463 degrees and diplomas awarded, the Governor expressed delight that 58.3% of recipients were female students, with more than half of the gold medallists being women. He hailed this as a reflection of women’s growing impact in education and beyond.

The awarded degrees included 17 Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) degrees, 1,618 undergraduate degrees and 10,827 postgraduate degrees, one postgraduate diploma.

The Governor also acknowledged KKHSOU’s efforts to provide study materials in Assamese, aligning with the National Education Policy’s (NEP) emphasis on Indian languages. He highlighted Assam’s rich intellectual heritage, citing Srimanta Sankardeva as a pioneer in shaping the state’s cultural and educational landscape.

Calling convocation, a milestone of perseverance and achievement, Acharya encouraged graduates to use their knowledge to propel India toward its goal of becoming a developed nation by 2047.

The event was attended by Professor Pawan Kumar Singh, Director of IIM Tiruchirappalli, who served as the special guest, along with KKHSOU Vice Chancellor Prof. Rajendra Prasad Das, faculty members, students, and other dignitaries.