CHANGANASSERY, Kerala – In a stirring address at the grand finale of St Berchmans College’s centenary celebrations, Vice President C.P. Radhakrishnan called on India to evolve from a technology adopter to a global creator nation. Speaking as the chief guest on February 28 at Archbishop Kavu Kutty Hall, he hailed the college’s 100-year legacy as a beacon of nation-building and character formation.
The Vice President, on his third visit to Kerala since assuming office, described the state as ‘Keralam’ – a term symbolizing its cultural pride and self-assurance. He portrayed the 1922-founded institution not merely as a campus but as a century-old force shaping India’s intellectual landscape, even during colonial times.
Highlighting illustrious alumni like legendary actor Prem Nazir, former Chief Minister V.S. Achuthanandan, and Oommen Chandy, he noted the college’s pride in producing two chief ministers. ‘Education builds character; educated citizens shape the nation,’ he emphasized, urging lifelong learning and mutual respect.
Turning to technology, Radhakrishnan declared the era of mere adoption over. ‘India must become a creator nation so the world adopts our innovations,’ he said, aligning with Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision of a developed India powered by youth energy. Institutions like St Berchmans, he added, will nurture responsible citizens, innovators, and leaders.
Invoking the college motto ‘Caritas Vera Nobilitas’ (Charity is true nobility), he stressed that true greatness lies in giving – be it time, knowledge, or guidance. ‘Living for oneself is fine, but living only for oneself is not,’ he remarked, appealing to students to contribute to society and embody the motto.
‘You are the second century of this college. The next 100 years will be written by your ideas, courage, and commitment. Dream big, work hard, and stay true to values,’ he exhorted. Inaugurating the Berchmans Centre for Emerging Technologies and Dr. K.M. Abraham Centre for Energy and Environment, he envisioned the centenary as the dawn of a more glorious era.
The event saw presence of Kerala Governor Rajendra Vishwanath Arlekar, Union Minister Suresh Gopi, Kerala Minister V.N. Vasavan, Principal Dr. Teddy Kanjuparambpil, and others.