President Droupadi Murmu presents a degree certificate to a graduating student during the first convocation of the Central Tribal University of Andhra Pradesh in Visakhapatnam on Tuesday. Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan, Andhra Pradesh Governor S. Abdul Nazeer and IT & HRD Minister Nara Lokesh looks on
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BY ARRANGEMENT
All universities, particularly tribal universities, should have innovative systems in place to enhance the livelihoods of tribal people, President of India Droupadi Murmu said.
Speaking at the first convocation ceremony of the Central Tribal University of Andhra Pradesh at Vizianagaram on Tuesday, the President asked the tribal universities to facilitate productive work in areas such as forest produce, handicrafts, millets, medicinal plants, eco-tourism and local entrepreneurship.
The Central Tribal University of Andhra Pradesh had several special responsibilities and was expected to become a hub for fostering self-confidence, leadership and policy-making capabilities within tribal society, Murmu said.
Institutions established with the objective of social justice also have a duty to work at the grassroots level for the education, health, skill development, livelihoods and forest rights of the tribal communities in their region, she said and expressed confidence that in the coming years, the tribal university would make meaningful efforts towards the holistic development of youth from marginalized and tribal communities, as well as the overall development of the region.
While the convocation marked a significant milestone in every student’s life as a day for celebration, it was also a moment to inspire students resolve their future, the President said.
She advised students to focus on the emerging horizons of skill development to remain relevant in a rapidly changing environment. She stated that they should go beyond textbook learning and should learn from their surrounding ecosystem to develop practical skills.
Students must strive to improve the future of society and the nation while remaining connected to their community, culture, and traditions, she added, according to a release.
Published on June 30, 2026
