Palakkad, Jan 20 : Kerala Governor Rajendra Vishwanath Arlekar has asserted that education should transcend the mere transmission of modern technical knowledge and must equally focus on inculcating India’s ancient wisdom, cultural values, and civilisational awareness among students to build a responsible and enlightened society.
Addressing the gathering after inaugurating the Diamond Jubilee celebrations of Karnakayamman Higher Secondary School at Kannakinagar here, the Governor said only a holistic and value-oriented education system could mould a generation that is socially accountable, nationally dedicated, and capable of competing confidently on the global stage.
He observed that the integration of tradition with modern scientific and technological learning was the need of the hour.
Arlekar said it was a matter of pride that an educational institution in Palakkad had, for the past 60 years, functioned as a guiding force for society with a clear vision and a strong foundation rooted in values. Such institutions, he noted, play a crucial role in shaping not just careers but also character and social consciousness.
Emphasising the responsibility of schools, the Governor said they must nurture students who are firmly grounded in India’s cultural ethos while being equipped with the latest scientific knowledge and technological skills. Education, he said, should not be confined to classrooms, textbooks, or examinations alone.
“Along with technical competence, students must develop an understanding of our ancient heritage, ethical principles, and cultural continuity. This awareness will help them realise their responsibility towards society and the nation,” he said.
Referring to the rapid pace of technological advancement, Arlekar pointed out that education must constantly evaluate its relevance to society’s day-to-day realities. Schools, he said, should periodically reassess their goals, curricula, and teaching methodologies to ensure students are prepared not only for employment but also for meaningful engagement in social life.
Highlighting the role of youth, the Governor said the younger generation has an enormous responsibility in shaping the future of the country. Educational institutions, therefore, must act as spaces where a modern scientific outlook and cultural sensitivity coexist harmoniously.
He observed that while students are exposed to progressive ideas and contemporary knowledge, they must also be guided to understand the objectives and ideals of tradition. Such an approach, he said, would ensure a healthy balance between progress and heritage, preventing alienation from cultural roots in the pursuit of modernity.
Referring to the Prime Minister’s vision of a “Viksit Bharat” (Developed India), the Governor said the responsibility of realising this national goal rests with every citizen. Each individual, he said, must introspect on the contribution he or she can make towards national development, with students having a particularly significant role in this process.
“As India moves towards the centenary of Independence, the nation has the strength and capacity to guide the world, provided we nurture a generation with clarity of purpose, moral strength, and commitment to the nation,” Arlekar said.
The Governor also spoke about the centenary of the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS), remarking that it should not be viewed merely as a celebratory milestone but as a stage in the journey of deeper engagement with society. He said RSS and society are not separate entities, noting that the organisation functions by internalising India’s culture and traditions.
“The aim is to reach a stage where it is naturally accepted that society and RSS are one and the same,” he said.
During the function, Arlekar inaugurated ‘Divyangamithram’, an AI-based interactive learning support initiative aimed at ensuring inclusive education and effective learning for differently-abled students. He also made the first contribution towards the implementation of the project.
As a gesture of respect and gratitude, the school trust presented the Governor with a memento symbolising Goddess Kannaki — a ‘Chilambu’ (anklet). The memento was formally handed over by Vice-President K. S. Kannan and Treasurer K. Sethumadhavan.
Earlier in the day, the Governor visited the historic Kannaki temple at Thirupuraykkal and received temple honours before arriving at the school campus. He was accorded a warm reception by the school management and the organising committee.
It was noted on the occasion that Karnakayamman Higher Secondary School is the only school in Kerala to have been visited by three RSS Sarsanghchalaks at different points in time to attend various programmes.
The Governor also felicitated students of the school who represented Kerala at the Bharat Scouts and Guides National Jamboree held in Lucknow. Those honoured included S. Neshmon, M. Anirudh, and Advaith Krishna. Special mention was made of young achievers, including a student who completed 101 marathons before attaining the age of 13, highlighting the institution’s emphasis on all-round excellence beyond academics.
District-level RSS functionaries, including District Sanghchalak K. P. Shajendran, Nagar Sanghchalak P. Swaminathan, Vibhag Karyavah K. Sudheer, and District Karyavah D. V. Krishnaprasad, were present at the event. Former manager Jyothiraman Master and several other prominent personalities also attended the celebrations.
Presiding over the function, School Manager K. Natarajan outlined the six-decade-long journey of the institution and reaffirmed its commitment to providing quality education to all sections of society without discrimination on the basis of caste or religion. Vice-President K. S. Kannan, former manager U. Kailasamony, Secretary S. Srinivasan, councillors P. Balan and P. Radhakrishnan, Headmistress K. V. Nisha, and Principal K. V. Rajesh addressed the gathering.
As part of the Diamond Jubilee celebrations, former teachers and staff members who played a significant role in the growth and development of the institution were honoured. Retiring teacher C. Preetha received a special memento from the Governor in recognition of her long and dedicated service.
Established in 1966 under the aegis of the Muthanthara Educational Society, Karnakayamman Higher Secondary School has grown into one of the prominent educational institutions in Palakkad district. With a record of consistent academic excellence and strong participation in Scouts and Guides, arts, sports, science fairs, and social awareness programmes, the school has carved out a distinctive identity in the region’s educational sphere.
The Diamond Jubilee celebrations, organised with the collective participation of the school management, PTA, alumni, teachers, and students, are expected to mark a significant milestone in the institution’s history. Announcements were also made regarding proposed academic and infrastructure development projects to be implemented in connection with the jubilee year, laying the groundwork for the school’s future expansion and progress.
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