Tiruvarur (Tamil Nadu): The National Education Policy brings together the best of tradition and modernity, and those who can adapt and learn new skills would become leaders of change, President Droupadi Murmu said on Wednesday.

Presiding over the 10th convocation ceremony of the Central University of Tamil Nadu, Murmu said the varsity deserves special appreciation for maintaining high academic standards and creating a stimulating environment that fosters intellectual curiosity and critical thinking.

She said, "In India, we have great and ancient traditions that sought knowledge for the sake of knowledge." In today's digital age, students have access to abundant learning resources.

"It is far easier for you to rediscover our rich legacy than it was for any previous generation. This is at the heart of the National Education Policy; it brings together the best of tradition and modernity," she said.

Urging students to keep learning, she said that the internet revolution has transformed the world, creating professions previously unimaginable. "Artificial Intelligence and Industrial Revolution 4.0 will further change the work culture. In such a dynamic environment, those who can adapt and learn new skills will become leaders of change," she added.

Stating that she had been a school teacher, Murmu said Mahatma Gandhi remained a student all his life, learning languages, scriptures, and practical skills, remaining alert and active until his last day. "You should keep the sense of wonder alive and remain curious. Continuous learning will keep your skills always in demand."

The central varsity actively contributes to the development of marginalised sections through initiatives like the community college and the Dr Ambedkar Centre for Excellence. She emphasised that education must link individual development with societal benefit and urged stakeholders to collaborate with industry to use science and technology for humanity, particularly enriching nature and ecology.

Later, Murmu visited Sri Rangam Lord Ranganathaswamy Temple in Tiruchirappalli, fed fruits to the temple elephant 'Andal,' and greeted people along the roadside.

From September 1 to 3, she visited Karnataka and Tamil Nadu, attending the diamond jubilee of AIISH in Mysuru, the 120th foundation day of City Union Bank in Chennai, and the convocation at the Central University of Tamil Nadu.