At the poignant conclusion of St Berchmans College’s centenary in Changanassery, Vice President C.P. Radhakrishnan delivered a visionary speech on February 28, imploring India to pioneer technology rather than follow. The Archbishop Kavu Kutty Hall event celebrated a century of excellence in education and patriotism.
On his third Kerala sojourn since taking office, he affectionately called the state ‘Keralam,’ embodying its proud heritage. The college, born in 1922, stood as a colonial-era lighthouse of enlightenment, blending intellect with integrity. Alumni feats – from Prem Nazir’s cinematic legacy to chief ministers V.S. Achuthanandan and Oommen Chandy – underscore its impact.
‘Character through education powers national progress,’ he proclaimed, promoting lifelong education and empathy. Respecting others ensures our own dignity, he added wisely.
The speech’s core: India’s tech destiny. ‘We’ve outgrown adoption; now, create for the globe,’ aligning with PM Modi’s Viksit Bharat. Youth passion, fueled by colleges like St Berchmans, will birth ethical innovators and trailblazers.
Reflecting on ‘Caritas Vera Nobilitas,’ nobility is giving heartily – not confined to money but extending to mentorship and aid. ‘Life solely for self is a hollow pursuit,’ he cautioned.
To students: ‘You forge the second century with bold visions, grit, and principles.’ He unveiled centers for cutting-edge tech and sustainable energy, joined by Governor Arlekar, Union Minister Gopi, state minister Vasavan, and college leaders.
Optimism defined his close: ‘This milestone heralds a century outshining the first.’