President Pranab Mukherjee today said a "quality-oriented" education system is the "force multiplier" that shall transform the country into one of the leading nations of the world.
Observing that teaching and learning processes are changing, the President said, "India has shown itself to be a secular, diverse and pluralistic society which is able to deal with the change, challenges and aspirations".
He was addressing the centenary celebration function of Wardha Shikshan Mandal, founded by Mahatma Gandhi's associates late Jamnalal Bajaj and Shrikrishnadas Jajoo, here as the chief guest.
"The world is on the move and India is also on the move. In this era of information and communication technology, teaching and learning processes are changing (too)," Mukherjee said, adding "endowed with good education and good values, the students and youth will contribute meaningfully in shaping their tomorrow."
Maharashtra Governor Ch Vidyasagar Rao, Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, Union Minister for Transport and Shipping Nitin Gadkari and Wardha Shikshan Mandal chairman and industrialist Rahul Bajaj were present on the dais.
The President said the country could deal with the change, challenges and aspirations because it is a secular and diverse society.
"This (dealing with the change) is possible due to abiding (by) faith and belief in education," he said.
"I have a great faith in philosophy and culture of our civilisation. The road to progress can be straightened by harmonising civilisational values and India is at a juncture when we need to realign moral compass. Understanding the core cultural and civilisational values and further building them is necessary.
"A quality-oriented education system is the force multiplier that shall transform the country into one of the leading nations in the world. The principles of good education are clear and timeless.
"The demographic dividends of the country's youth can only be reaped (through) educational institutions which are committed to delivering appropriate learning environment," the President said.
