Education that merely provides degree without developing character has little value: Rajnath

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh emphasized the importance of developing character alongside formal education during the 11th convocation ceremony at Babasaheb Bhimrao Ambedkar University in Lucknow. Singh stated that education that only provides a degree without cultivating character is incomplete and lacks value. He urged students to broaden their minds and avoid jealousy, as a person's happiness and fulfilment increase with the expansion of their outlook.

Singh drew parallels between the importance of a broad mind and humility, stating that a person with a narrow mind cannot have a pure mind. He recalled former Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee's words, asserting that no one becomes great with a small mind and no one can stand with a broken spirit. Singh also referenced the struggles faced by Dr. Babasaheb Ambedkar, who chose education over violence or blaming his fate despite facing discrimination.

He highlighted that Ambedkar's path of education and subsequent inspiration for change demonstrates the value of education and character.

The defence minister emphasized that universities are centres of personality development, and when institutions like Ambedkar University bear the name of such a reformer, the expectations are even greater. Singh stated that skill, knowledge, values, and sensitivity are essential for a well-rounded education. He quoted Ambedkar, asserting that character is more important than education; an educated person lacking humility and morality can be more dangerous than a violent animal.

He advised students to remain humble and reminded them that a zero has no significance by itself but gains value when placed after a number.