President Droupadi Murmu describes education as the single most important tool that transformed her life and impacted her administrative and political career. Being the first woman from her village to receive a college degree, she considers education instrumental in empowering the vulnerable.
While on her 3-days state visit to Mauritius on the country’s National Day Celebration as the Chief Guest, President Murmu was conferred with the honorary degree of Doctor of Civil Law by the University of Mauritius. On receiving the distinction from the university, she expressed feeling honored and hoped that this would inspire the young women to discover their passion and dreams.
President Droupadi Murmu participated as Chief Guest, in the National Day celebrations of Mauritius in presence of President Prithvirajsing Roopun and Prime Minister Pravind Kumar Jugnauth of Mauritius. Among the various marching contingents was also the proudly marching… pic.twitter.com/RiFp72nlFI
— President of India (@rashtrapatibhvn) March 12, 2024
Honorary doctorates are awarded to people who have distinguished themselves in their fields or made outstanding contributions to society. These honorary degrees do not require recipients to fulfill the typical academic requirements of a doctoral program.
Notably the University of Mauritius, the country’s leading institution was established in 1965, offering high-quality education that responds to the needs of Mauritius.
I feel especially honoured to receive the Honorary Degree of Doctor of Civil Law from the University of Mauritius. I hope that it will inspire all young people, particularly young women, to discover their unique passion and pursue their dreams. pic.twitter.com/gWljH97GoB
— President of India (@rashtrapatibhvn) March 12, 2024
In her address, President Murmu reflected upon the power of education in transforming India into a Knowledge economy considering its highly young population. “Recognizing the transformative power of education and given that half of the Indian population is below the age of 25, the Government of India has made it a priority to educate and empower youth to lead India into the ‘knowledge economy’ of tomorrow”, she said.
As per President Murmu, India had been supportive of mutual educational support and interaction of the youth between both the countries. She informs that nearly 400 Mauritius students are trained in India under the Indian Technical and Economic Cooperation (ITEC) program and around 60 Mauritian students pursue higher education in India through scholarships in various fields.
The President in her address, encouraged youth to stay connected to strengthen bilateral ties and investment in a bright future on both sides.
The bilateral ties between India and Mauritius have been significant throughout history. The High Commissioner of Mauritius to India, Mukheshwar Chuni once said, “With around 75 percent population of Indian origin, Mauritius is a mini India.”
Every year March 12 is celebrated as the National Day of Mauritius Day. This commemorates the nation”s independence from Britain in 1968 and its 1992 conversion to a republic.