Venkaiah Naidu Urges Youth to Value Mother Tongue, Research and Cultural Roots at Vijayawada Event
Former Vice President highlighted the importance of remembering one’s nation, mother tongue, educational institutions and teachers while addressing the golden jubilee celebrations of the alumni association at in Vijayawada. His speech focused on education, cultural identity and the role of youth in shaping India’s future.
Naidu urged students and young professionals to prioritise research and actively engage with social issues. He emphasised that education should not be limited to academic achievement but should contribute to societal awareness and national development. The former Vice President encouraged alumni to remain connected with their institutions and support future generations through mentorship and knowledge sharing.
Speaking about cultural continuity, Naidu stressed the importance of passing traditions from ancestors to future generations. He underscored the value of preserving linguistic heritage, particularly Telugu, and called for greater efforts to promote the language globally. According to him, regional languages play a crucial role in shaping identity and strengthening cultural confidence in an increasingly globalised world.
Naidu also reflected on India’s civilisational ethos, noting that the country has historically contributed knowledge and values without pursuing expansionist ambitions. He described India as a “global teacher” whose influence lies in ideas, education and cultural exchange.
The address resonated with ongoing discussions around education reform, skill development and language preservation. Experts note that calls to prioritise research align with India’s efforts to strengthen innovation ecosystems across universities. Emphasising mother tongue learning has also become part of broader policy debates aimed at improving comprehension and inclusivity in education.
Naidu’s remarks about quality over quantity highlighted a growing concern that degrees alone do not guarantee employability. Industry leaders increasingly stress practical skills, critical thinking and research exposure as key differentiators for graduates entering competitive job markets.
Future Outlook
Naidu concluded by reiterating that knowledge holds greater value than formal qualifications, urging students to cultivate curiosity and lifelong learning habits. As institutions expand alumni networks and research initiatives, such messages reinforce the need for collaboration between academia, industry and society to prepare youth for emerging challenges.