Ahmedabad, August 27: Union Home Minister Amit Shah addressed graduating students at Gujarat Vidyapeeth on Thursday, urging them to set goals that extend beyond personal ambitions and family interests. He emphasized the importance of aiming for the betterment of society and marginalized communities. This perspective, he noted, would help them face challenges without the burden of success or failure weighing them down.
Speaking at the 72nd convocation ceremony, Shah remarked that the 900 graduates are entering a new phase of life, where they will encounter both familial and societal challenges. The event took place at the Pranjivan Vidyarthi Bhavan, with Shah as the chief guest and Gujarat’s Governor and Chancellor Acharya Devvrat presiding over the ceremony.
Shah encouraged the students to establish a goal before leaving the university but cautioned them against the pressure of worrying about potential success. He quoted a wise individual who advised that one should not ponder whether a task will be completed but rather whether it is worth doing. He stated, “A goal focused on the nation and society will motivate you to continue working despite failures. If you set a goal for society and the country, the burden of winning or losing will not weigh on you.”
To illustrate his point, Shah shared personal experiences of facing numerous challenges in life without succumbing to despair. He explained that the difficulties he encountered were not solely for his or his family’s benefit. The true purpose behind those struggles was the larger goal he aimed to achieve.
Despite attempts to discourage him, Shah maintained his enthusiasm for work, attributing his perseverance to “God’s grace,” which enabled him to fight through every battle and achieve success.
He reminded the graduates that their education at Gujarat Vidyapeeth should remain a continuous source of guidance even after graduation. They will face challenges ahead, but if they practice the lessons learned and engage in self-study, solutions will naturally emerge.
Shah described Gujarat Vidyapeeth as a place where education is shaped through practical experiences, including village-centered development models and foundational education. He noted, “Students have been taught to think beyond themselves and consider the broader society.”
Additionally, Shah shared his personal connection to the institution, recalling how he spent time reading in its library and never imagined he would one day deliver a speech as the chief guest at its convocation.
He also reflected on his lifelong inspiration from Mahatma Gandhi, mentioning that his mother was a devoted follower of Gandhi. Shah reminisced about his youth spent weaving khadi and pledged to wear khadi throughout his life.
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