Education, the driving force for economic growth - Premier D.M. Jayaratne

Prime Minister D.M. Jayaratne

Prime Minister D.M. Jayaratne said education can empower our huge human capital to be a major constructive force to drive the growth of the economies. High quality higher education has the potential to find reasonable solutions for the common problems we face today. A positive attitude is also important to address the social problems of humanity.

Premier was speaking as the Chief Guest at the Convocation of the Manipal University, in Karnataka State, India recently said that the Manipal University has long been recognised - for excellence in quality education. The University has achieved its success by demonstrating - the commitment to serve humanity. As a result it has secured some of the top rankings - in India and the world as well.

The Manipal University is special in many ways. Personally, it is important to me as one of my daughters has also graduated in this University.

Apart from catering to the needs of modern higher education for a large number of students worldwide, including Sri Lanka, the institution has several features that are considered important. Steps taken by the University to maintain discipline, environment protection, research, respect for cultural values, and high quality higher education are some of the key features that are commendable and impressive."

The Premier said Sri Lanka as a close neighbour and a good friend of India extends sincere congratulations on India's recent achievement in space science. India has demonstrated its achievement in education by successfully launching a rocket to Mars.

"I can see all types of gems shining in this hall today. I am sure that Manipal University will continue to produce more valuable gems in all fields of education to serve the cause of humanity.

Be responsible citizens and make it your duty to concern yourselves with the moral dimension not only of what you do, but of the way you assess what is going on around you. If your work is not guided by morality and ethics, your success, even if achieved, will not be authentic. Do not accept corruption as a way of life. Stick to your principles and have faith in the strength of your will power and determination."

The Prime Minister said that it should be your collective effort to progressively move forward towards making the world a better place to live while respecting others. Each one of us, regardless of our differences and as human beings, can meaningfully contribute to this objective.

After all, we are all in this world to play our respective roles to make the world a peaceful and happy place for the present and future generations. It depends on how well we play our roles.