Pune: State water resources minister Radhakrishna Vikhe Patil stated that political leaders and educational administrators must shoulder greater social responsibility to ensure quality education reaches students from the most disadvantaged sections of society.
He made these remarks during the felicitation programme organized by Bharati Vidyapeeth to mark the Amrit Mahotsav year of its chancellor Shivajirao Kadam on Sunday. Vikhe Patil noted that growing dependence on government grants was weakening the sense of civic responsibility among institutions and citizens.
"Today, the political system and educational administrators are failing to provide quality education to students from the most disadvantaged sections of society. Educational leaders, teachers and citizens must act with social responsibility so that the last person in society can confidently approach the temples of learning," he said.
Referring to the legacy of Bharati Vidyapeeth founder Patangrao Kadam, Vikhe Patil said he remained committed to his principles despite challenges and contributed significantly to education. He added that Shivajirao Kadam's values and approach to educational administration were shaped under his guidance.
Union minister of state for cooperation and civil aviation Murlidhar Mohol, who attended the programme as chief guest, said the occasion was a recognition of values and social commitment in education. He noted that Bharati Vidyapeeth had expanded to the national level under the leadership of Patangrao Kadam and subsequent administrators.
Dignitaries released 'Amritsanchay', a commemorative volume edited by Milind Joshi and dedicated to Shivajirao Kadam. Kadam remarked that the honour is a recognition of a lifelong mission for knowledge rather than an individual achievement. Recalling his journey from a farming family in a drought-prone region, he said the Earn and Learn Scheme of Rayat Shikshan Sanstha enabled him to pursue higher education and shaped his outlook towards educational service.
Vishwajit Kadam, pro-vice chancellor of Bharati Vidyapeeth, and other officials attended the programme.
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