Kerala University Graduates Take Historic Oath Against Social Evils
In a landmark initiative, all graduating students at the Kerala University of Fisheries and Ocean Studies (Kufos) took a solemn oath against dowry and drug abuse during their 11th convocation ceremony. The event, held on the university campus in Kochi on Thursday, saw this declaration made mandatory for every awardee, marking a significant step toward fostering socially responsible citizens.
Governor Emphasizes Social Responsibility in Education
Speaking at the ceremony, Governor Rajendra Vishwanath Arlekar, who also serves as the chancellor, underscored the importance of this anti-dowry initiative. He noted that nearly 70% of the graduating students are women, making the pledge particularly impactful in the current social context. Arlekar stressed that education in fisheries and marine studies should transcend mere degree acquisition, aiming instead to serve society and contribute meaningfully to community development.
"In today's social climate, it is crucial for everyone to take a clear stand against social evils like dowry and drug abuse," Arlekar stated, highlighting the university's role in nurturing ethical values alongside academic excellence.
University's Broader Impact on Coastal and Ecological Sectors
Fisheries Minister Saji Cherian, in his address, praised Kufos for its dual role as an academic institution and a catalyst for change. He emphasized that the university is not only advancing education but also making strong interventions in coastal and ecological sectors. Cherian pointed out that Kufos contributes significantly to national development and social welfare, aligning its mission with broader societal goals.
The convocation celebrated the achievements of 450 students this year, including:
- 110 undergraduate graduates
- 304 postgraduate graduates
- 36 PhD scholars
In addition to the graduations, the ceremony recognized faculty excellence. Girish Gopinath received the Best Faculty Researcher Award, while Rahul Krishnan was honored with the Best Young Faculty Award, showcasing the university's commitment to academic and research prowess.
A Step Toward a More Responsible Society
This mandatory oath against dowry and drug abuse reflects Kufos's proactive approach to addressing pressing social issues. By integrating such pledges into formal academic ceremonies, the university aims to instill a sense of duty and awareness among its graduates, encouraging them to become agents of positive change in their communities.
The initiative has been widely applauded as a model for other educational institutions, demonstrating how academia can play a pivotal role in combating social evils and promoting ethical conduct beyond the classroom.
