Tamil Nadu Governor RN Ravi once again stirred controversy by expressing sorrow over the poor quality of education in Tamil Nadu government schools, noting that the quality of education falls below the national average. This statement has sparked controversy, especially since the governor recently criticized the state curriculum as subpar compared to national standards.
On Teacher’s Day, 5 September 2024, Raj Bhavan hosted the 16th “Think to Dare” program, bringing together teachers and educationists to discuss students’ future in alignment with the national goal of Viksit Bharat by 2047. Governor Ravi encouraged educators to keep this goal in mind while fulfilling their duties and to guide students in navigating emerging advanced technologies. He emphasized the importance of inspiring excellence in innovation, maintaining high educational standards, fostering self-confidence and discipline, and staying vigilant against drug abuse.
At the event, Governor Ravi paid floral tribute to Dr. Sarvepalli Radhakrishnan and honored 17 teachers and educationists for their outstanding contributions to the nation. The ceremony took place at Raj Bhavan’s Bharathiar Mandapam.
Governor Ravi, paid floral tribute to Dr Sarvepalli Radhakrishnan, at the 16th Think to Dare programme on #TeachersDay. He felicitated 17 teachers and educationists for their exemplary services to the nation at Raj Bhavan's Bharathiar Mandapam. pic.twitter.com/7HdUfRFklY
— RAJ BHAVAN, TAMIL NADU (@rajbhavan_tn) September 5, 2024
Speaking later, Governor R.N. Ravi reflected on India’s historical unity, noting that even before independence, people from Kashmir to Kanyakumari shared a sense of common identity despite numerous kingdoms. He recounted how his grandmother traveled from Bihar to Rameswaram 120 years ago, driven by the belief that Rameswaram belonged to everyone. He emphasized that places like Rameswaram and Kashi are not just for kings but for the people of India, with rulers serving merely as protectors.
Ravi highlighted that, historically, people traveled across the country for both devotion and education. For instance, a Pallava prince journeyed to Nalanda 1,500 years ago to study and later became a teacher himself, demonstrating the open exchange of knowledge and cultural integration. He compared this to Adi Shankara’s travels, which were welcomed everywhere he went.
Addressing current issues, Ravi lamented the decline in educational standards in Tamil Nadu, noting that 60% of students in government schools face significant learning challenges, with many struggling to understand basic concepts or read their textbooks. He criticized the lenient promotion policies that exacerbate this problem, leading to a mismatch between educational qualifications and job market needs.
Ravi also highlighted the growing problem of drug abuse, particularly in schools and colleges, urging that this issue be acknowledged and addressed. He called on the teaching community and parents to be vigilant and proactive. On Teacher’s Day, he urged educators to inspire students to dream big, as many currently lack ambition and settle for mediocrity. He likened students to the seeds of banyan trees, with great potential that must be nurtured to flourish.
At the 16th Think to Dare programme on #TeachersDay, Governor Ravi urged the Teachers to remain ever mindful of our national goal #ViksitBharat at 2047 and accordingly discharge responsibilities in way that furthers the goal. In view of emerging powerful advanced technologies it… pic.twitter.com/rHtb9Pjy5H
— RAJ BHAVAN, TAMIL NADU (@rajbhavan_tn) September 5, 2024
(With Inputs From Hindu Tamil)
Subscribe to our Telegram, WhatsApp, and Instagram channels and get the best stories of the day delivered instantly.