The chief guest of the convocation was noted social worker Dr Prakash Amte who appealed to youths to take up social service in villages to build a peaceful and humane society
Look at man and woman as individuals first, said chancellor Ela Bhatt addressing graduating students at Gujarat Vidyapith's 65th convocation held on Thursday. In her speech, Bhatt, who also founded Self Employed Women's Association (SEWA), spoke about relationships and asked the students to look beyond the traditional rules set by our society for a man and a woman.
Addressing nearly 816 graduating students, she said, "We are born as humans, someone is born a male and some female. All these are biological acts which we cannot change. But the society makes us man and woman. Speech, conduct and behaviour is layered by our society and the society fixes our roles. For example, boys need to be strong, girls should remain shy, men go out to work and women need to stay at home. But in practical life, it is not possible. We are unable to see reality as we are wearing specs that shows that girls are weak in Math and Sports, when a girl wears good clothes, it is to attract boys, if a girl smiles at a boy, she is in love with him, etc. Where do you all learn these things from? Cinema or the society instills such thoughts."
Delving more about friendship, she said, "Whenever you look at a man or a woman, first look them as an individual and their friendship. Romance is good but it is temporary. Friendship lasts longer."
A total of 816 students, including 32 Ph.Ds, 23 M.Phils, 393 post graduates, 293 graduates and 75 post-graduate diploma holders were awarded degrees.
Asking students to speak about their issues, she said, "There is no point in thinking about the past and fearing the future. Everyone has problems but problems and happiness are a part of life. No matter whatever secret you have, there would be someone with whom you can share. Be aware of anyone in your circle who has lost interest in food, studies, suddenly becomes introvert, try and help them."
The chief guest of the convocation was noted social worker Dr Prakash Amte who appealed to youths to take up social service in villages to build a peaceful and humane society.
Amte said, "Today's youth should work in rural areas to help those who are in need. Instead of just pursuing personal ambitions, youths should also take up social service. It will give you great sense of fulfilment and satisfaction."
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