Education is wealth beyond measure: VP Radhakrishnan

Vice President C P Radhakrishnan on Monday described education as the most valuable form of wealth, one that cannot be taken away, while lauding Kerala’s unmatched contribution to India’s education sector.

Speaking at the diamond jubilee celebrations of Fatima Mata National College in Kollam, Radhakrishnan quoted Tamil poet Thiruvalluvar, saying, “Education is wealth that cannot be taken away. No wealth can equal its richness.”

Emphasising the growing importance of education in a rapidly changing world marked by climate challenges and digital disruptions, he said colleges must move beyond producing mere job-seekers. “We should not be interested in creating gumastas (clerks) but in producing scientists, administrators, and visionaries who can serve society,” he said.

The Vice President praised Kerala’s literacy achievement, noting its remarkable 90 per cent rate when most states had not even reached 40 per cent. He urged students to maintain discipline, avoid social media overuse, and exercise self-control in all aspects of life.

Radhakrishnan also warned against drug and alcohol abuse, highlighting his initiative, “No to Drugs,” and called for it to become a people’s movement. “Where there is more freedom, it must be used responsibly,” he said.

Expressing his admiration for the state’s educational legacy, he said, “If God wills, I will come back for the centenary celebrations.”

Kerala Governor Rajendra Arlekar, speaking at the event, said education should foster nation-building and entrepreneurship, aligning with the vision of ‘Viksit Bharat 2047’ and ‘Viksit Kerala.’

Union Minister Suresh Gopi, Kerala Finance Minister K Balagopal, and Kollam Bishop Paul Antony Mullassery were also present.

Radhakrishnan is on a two-day visit to Kerala and will attend a function in Thiruvananthapuram on Tuesday.