RONO HILLS, 4 Sep: Rajiv Gandhi University's (RGU) library & information science department celebrated Teachers' Day with great enthusiasm and reverence on Friday, with the participation of faculty members, staff and students of the department.
The programme was organised by the students of the 1st and 3rd semesters as a mark of respect, gratitude and appreciation towards their teachers.
Addressing the gathering, Library & Information Science Head Dr Sudhir Kumar Jena commended the students for taking the initiative to organise the celebration and for inviting the faculty members to be part of the occasion.
In his address, Dr Jena emphasised that Teachers' Day is not merely an occasion to thank teachers but also an opportunity to reflect upon the importance of education, learning, discipline, and the enduring relationship between teachers and students. He encouraged the students to develop not only professional competence but also values such as honesty, discipline, sincerity, confidence and a spirit of service.
Referring to the rapidly changing landscape of library and information science, particularly with the emergence of artificial intelligence and digital technologies, he advised the students to remain knowledgeable, technology-friendly and adaptable while never losing sight of the human values and service orientation that remain central to the library profession. He urged the students to read extensively, ask questions, learn from their mistakes, develop effective communication skills, and continue learning throughout their lives. He assured the students that the department would always extend its support in their academic and professional journey, observing that "your success is our success, and your achievements will make us proud."
He also stressed that the teacher-student relationship should always be founded on mutual respect, trust and continuous learning.
Prof S Ravi delivered an informative and inspiring account of the life and contributions of Dr Sarvepalli Radhakrishnan, whose birth anniversary is observed as Teachers' Day in India. He spoke extensively about Dr Radhakrishnan's early life and education, his academic and teaching career, his contributions as a distinguished philosopher and educationist, and his remarkable journey in public life.
Prof Ravi also highlighted the various responsibilities and positions held by Dr Radhakrishnan, including his association with teaching and academia, his diplomatic responsibilities as an ambassador, his tenure as the vice president of India, and subsequently as the president of India.
Prof Ravi emphasised that Dr Radhakrishnan's life "represents a unique combination of scholarship, humility, dedication, intellectual excellence and service to the nation." He encouraged the students to draw inspiration from his life, and to understand that true education goes beyond academic qualifications; it develops character, responsibility, wisdom and a commitment to society and the nation.
He advised the students to remain sincere in their studies, respect their teachers, pursue knowledge with curiosity, and contribute positively to society through their professional and personal lives.
The celebration also provided an opportunity for the students to express their gratitude and affection towards their teachers.
The Teachers' Day celebration concluded on a positive and inspiring note, with a renewed sense of mutual respect and appreciation between teachers and students.
