Become job creators rather than jobseekers, Governor urges KAU graduates

Governor Rajendra Vishwanath Arlekar called upon graduates of Kerala Agricultural University (KAU) to strive to become job creators rather than jobseekers. The Governor, who is also the Chancellor of the university, was addressing the university’s convocation ceremony here on Thursday where degrees were awarded to 1,039 students across fields of agriculture, engineering, forestry and related disciplines.

Highlighting the need for a shift in the mindset of the youth, the Governor urged the students to embrace entrepreneurship and innovation, especially in the light of rising unemployment. “A secure job might sometimes lead to secure poverty, whereas those willing to take risks could open the doors to prosperity,” he said.

He stressed that every individual had a role in achieving India’s goal of becoming a developed nation by 2047. Encouraging students to think differently, he pointed out the growing opportunities in the agricultural sector and said the youth should approach this space with courage, vision, and entrepreneurial intent.

The Governor added that both the Union and State governments had introduced various schemes to support agri-entrepreneurs. The university’s incubation centres and entrepreneurship development programmes would provide guidance and support to students stepping into this field, he said. He also stressed the importance of promoting natural farming methods in the State to ensure the production of pesticide-free food.

Minister for Agriculture and university Pro-Chancellor P. Prasad, who presided over the event, noted that advancements in digital technologies, including artificial intelligence and the Internet of Things, had significantly improved productivity and reduced manual effort in agriculture. “The government is working to adopt these innovations in the State’s farming practices, with the university playing a central role in this transformation.”

The Minister reminded the graduates that agriculture was a socially critical sector and emphasised their responsibility in uplifting the socio-economic condition of farmers. “We should never forget the soil or the farmers. Without them, life itself is unsustainable,” he said, urging the graduates to dedicate their knowledge and skills to solving real-world challenges faced by the farmers.

The Governor handed over a financial contribution of ₹25 lakh from the university for Wayanad disaster relief to the Agriculture Minister.

The university also conferred honorary doctorates on Kadambot Siddique, Hackett Professor at the University of Western Australia; and Paul Thomas, managing director and Chief Executive Officer of ESAF Small Finance Bank; in recognition of their contributions.

A student declaration against dowry was presented to the Governor by the Agriculture Minister, and a university resolution against drug abuse was handed over by Vice-Chancellor B. Ashok.

Awards for academic excellence in each discipline were distributed jointly by the Governor and the Minister. Registrar Shakir Hussain, and Deans Roy Stephen, P.R. Jayan, and T.K. Kunjamu were among those present.