President Droupadi Murmu on Thursday lauded St. Thomas College, Palai, for its 75-year-long contribution to Kerala’s higher education and social transformation, describing the institution as a workshop where “destinies are shaped.”
Addressing the platinum jubilee celebrations, the President commended the college’s focus on holistic learning, sustainability, and inclusivity.
“With its emphasis on intellectual pursuits guided by a moral compass, this college promotes the sanctity of life, the light of wisdom, and love for humanity — values that are universal and eternal,” she said, referring to the college emblem bearing the Latin words for “Life, Light and Love.”
Highlighting Kerala’s strong educational traditions, President Murmu recalled social reform movements originating in Kottayam, including the historic Vaikom Satyagraha. She also paid tribute to literacy pioneers such as P.N. Panicker, whose “Vayichu Valaruga” (Read and Grow) initiative inspired Kerala’s celebrated library movement.
“The power of literacy, education, and knowledge has made Kerala a leader in human development,” she observed.
The President urged students to draw inspiration from the region’s illustrious legacy, from the establishment of India’s early printing presses in Kottayam to the achievements of eminent alumni of St. Thomas College, including former Chief Justice of India K.G. Balakrishnan and volleyball legend Jimmy George.
Referring to her earlier visit to Thiruvananthapuram, where she unveiled a bust of former President K.R. Narayanan, President Murmu said his life exemplified “the democratic spirit of India” and the transformative power of education.
Situated on the banks of the Meenachil River, St. Thomas College has contributed significantly to Kerala’s knowledge ecosystem by providing quality education to students from rural backgrounds.
“As the nation moves towards Viksit Bharat 2047, I am confident this institution will continue to light the path to an equitable and enlightened society,” she said.
President Murmu has been in Kerala for the past three days. She will spend Thursday at the famed Kumarakom tourist destination before returning to Delhi on Friday.
–IANS