President urges universities to study impact of slowdown

President Pratibha Devi Singh Patil urged universities in the country to study the socio-economic impact of the financial crisis that has "altered the dynamics of the global economy".

President Pratibha Devi Singh Patil on Thursday urged the universities in the country to study the socio-economic impact of the financial crisis that has "altered the dynamics of the global economy".

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"The universities should study the socio-economic impact of the financial downturn both on the wider level and at the ground level," she said, while addressing the 25th convocation ceremony of the University of Rajasthan here.

"The existing institutions and response mechanism will be tested as we deal with its impact and implications. For this, a collective effort would be required", Patil added.

According to the president, universities help a nation in achieving economic vitality and scientific prowess, and accelerates social change, besides making it competitive. She emphasised that universities must have out-reach programmes that enable students to interact with local communities and understand their issues.

Emphasising the importance of education for women, Patil said education prepares girls to fulfil their diverse responsibilities in their families as well as in the affairs of the country. She said the focus on woman education was necessary to build informed societies.

Presiding over the function, Rajasthan Governor S.K. Singh called upon the students to come forward and lead the society in this era of globalisation.

"Degrees equip us with knowledge but our skills and capabilities are tested when we step out of the university," he said.