Vadodara, September 23 (Daily Kiran) : President Droupadi Murmu has called for a multidisciplinary approach in higher education to address complex contemporary issues such as climate change, artificial intelligence, poverty alleviation, and democracy. Speaking at the 75th convocation ceremony of Maharaja Sayajirao University of Baroda in Gujarat, she highlighted the importance of integrating various fields of study.
Murmu noted that the university offers a diverse range of subjects, making it well-positioned to merge different streams of knowledge. “From arts to science, technology to medicine, law to social work, and fine arts to performing arts, this university provides education across multiple domains,” she stated.
She pointed out that the challenges faced by society are increasingly interconnected and require knowledge from various disciplines to find effective solutions. “Climate change is not just an environmental studies topic. Artificial intelligence is not solely a computer science issue. Health is not merely a medical science concern. Alleviating poverty is not just an economist’s task. Democracy is not only a political science subject,” she remarked.
Murmu emphasized that a multidisciplinary perspective is essential to solve today’s pressing problems. She encouraged students not to limit themselves to their specific fields of study but to develop a broader understanding and perspective.
“We need the curiosity of a scientist, the sensitivity of an artist, the perspective of a historian, an understanding of economics, and a consciousness of sociology,” she added. The President expressed hope that institutions like Maharaja Sayajirao University would advance in this direction and assist students in applying knowledge across different subjects.
She also stressed the importance of using discernment and understanding when adopting rapidly evolving technologies. “Artificial intelligence can provide solutions, but it is your responsibility to ask the right questions. Technology can accelerate progress, but it is up to students to determine its direction,” she advised.
Murmu urged students to connect technological capabilities with human values and constitutional principles. She emphasized that educated citizens are expected to embody the ideals of “justice, liberty, equality, and fraternity” as outlined in the Constitution in their lives and workplaces.
The university’s departments include arts, science, education, psychology, commerce, technology and engineering, medicine, law, fine arts, family and community sciences, social work, performing arts, management studies, journalism and communication, and pharmacy.
As announced during the convocation, 229 candidates were awarded Doctor of Philosophy degrees, 2,857 earned Master’s degrees, 8,863 received Bachelor’s degrees, and 657 qualified for postgraduate diplomas.
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