PM Modi tells IIT Delhi graduates: Life will always throw 'out of syllabus' questions
Prime Minister Narendra Modi delivered a simple message to the graduating students at IIT Delhi's 57th convocation: their real test begins only after leaving the campus. He urged the students to use their education not merely to build successful careers, but also to find solutions to the problems facing the nation and society.
Recalling his previous virtual interaction with IIT Delhi during the COVID-19 pandemic, PM Modi expressed his happiness at returning to the campus and sharing this special moment with the graduating batch. He congratulated the students, medal winners, their parents, teachers, and everyone who supported them throughout their academic journey.
The Prime Minister asked the students to cherish the memories created at IIT Delhi—be it hostel rivalries and friendships or everyday campus experiences. He noted that such memories would provide them with strength during life's difficult moments.
Keep learning
Speaking about the rapidly changing world, PM Modi remarked that technology is transforming economies, industries, and geopolitics at an unprecedented pace. His advice to young engineers was straightforward: keep learning. He stated that those who continuously update their knowledge would be better prepared to succeed in this changing world.
PM also offered a different perspective on the significance of an IIT degree. He emphasized that it is not just about a high CGPA or a good placement; rather, it signals to the world that the graduate possesses the capability to tackle complex problems.
"Life is about things beyond the syllabus," Modi told the students, explaining that real-world challenges rarely come with clearly defined questions and answers. He encouraged them to identify problems that people have come to accept as the norm and to work towards solving them.
Opportunities are opening up for young Indians
The Prime Minister also highlighted the opportunities opening up for young Indians in sectors such as space technology, semiconductors, drones, artificial intelligence, quantum computing, startups, and deep-sea exploration. He stated that the government is opening up new sectors and strengthening research to provide young innovators with greater scope to experiment and create something new.
Life is not a leaderboard
Modi urged graduates to align their ambitions with India's growth over the next 25 to 30 years. At the same time, he cautioned them against constantly comparing their salaries, placements, or entrepreneurial successes with others on social media. "Life is not a leaderboard," he said, encouraging students to focus on self-improvement.
As the graduates stepped into a new phase of life, PM Modi wished them success and urged them to keep learning, keep questioning, and use their skills to help build a strong and self-reliant India.