Education must go beyond jobs, focus on nation-building: LS Speaker Om Birla

Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla called for inclusive and value-based education, saying learning should extend beyond employment to promote social responsibility, character-building, and nation-building.

Addressing students at the annual day ceremony of Kirori Mal College, University of Delhi, Birla said education must align with the broader national vision and ensure development reaches the last person in society.

He urged students to take an active role in democracy, adding that progress is meaningful only when it is inclusive.

Highlighting reforms in the sector, Birla said the National Education Policy 2020 is bringing significant changes by promoting critical thinking and academic flexibility.

He emphasized that knowledge and skills must be supported by strong moral values, integrity, and perseverance.

He also described teachers as “architects of society” who shape responsible and aware citizens. Birla praised Kirori Mal College for its inclusive initiatives, particularly efforts to support visually impaired students through technology and skill development.

Earlier, speaking at the annual day function of Maharaja Agrasen College, he encouraged students to actively contribute to the country’s democratic and developmental journey.

He said the vision of “Viksit Bharat 2047” can be achieved through the innovation, commitment, and participation of youth.

Calling India’s youth confident and globally competitive, Birla highlighted their growing role in innovation, research, and entrepreneurship.

He urged students to think big, work hard, and contribute to building an Aatmanirbhar Bharat, adding that greater youth participation in governance would strengthen democratic institutions.

He also referred to the legacy of Maharaja Agrasen, highlighting his governance model based on equality and social harmony, and cited Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel’s leadership as an enduring influence on India’s constitutional and administrative framework.

Later, addressing students at Delhi Public School, Mathura Road, Birla stressed the importance of innovation, original thinking, and technology in a rapidly changing world.

He described “Viksit Bharat 2047” as a collective national goal to transform India into a developed, inclusive, and self-reliant nation by the centenary of Independence while appreciating students for their achievements and discipline.