Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday expressed confidence that the School of Ultimate Leadership (SOUL) will cultivate leaders who will thrive in various fields, describing its establishment as a significant milestone in India’s path toward Viksit Bharat.
PM Modi highlighted the need for capable leaders in all sectors of society. “The development of citizens is crucial for nation-building, and fostering skilled leaders in every field is essential. The establishment of the School of Ultimate Leadership marks a significant step toward achieving Viksit Bharat,” he said.
He stated that SOUL’s expansive campus near Gujarat’s GIFT City would be completed soon, noting that the institution would also stand out architecturally. “The chairman showed me the model and design of the campus. I believe this institution will lead not only in leadership development but also from an architectural perspective,” he added.
Drawing inspiration from Swami Vivekananda, the Prime Minister underscored the transformative power of dedicated individuals. “Swami Vivekananda once said, ‘Give me a hundred energetic young men and women, and I shall transform India.’ He believed that with a hundred leaders, India could not only gain freedom but also become a leading nation,” PM Modi said, encouraging SOUL to cultivate leaders who could drive India’s progress.
Highlighting the importance of leadership beyond politics, the Prime Minister said that with a population of 140 crore, India requires effective leaders in every sector. “There is vast potential for SOUL to shape leaders who will not only contribute to the nation but also make a global impact. Some of the graduates might go on to achieve new milestones in politics,” he added.
Recalling Gujarat’s transformation, PM Modi emphasized the role of human capital in a nation’s progress. “During the separation of Gujarat and Maharashtra, people questioned Gujarat’s future due to its lack of natural resources. With no mines, coal, or water, and proximity to the desert and Pakistan, many doubted its prospects. But today, Gujarat has achieved remarkable growth, showcasing the power of leadership,” he said.
The inaugural ceremony also saw the presence of Bhutan’s Prime Minister Tshering Tobgay. The two-day conclave, held from February 21 to 22 at Bharat Mandapam, serves as a platform for leaders from diverse fields—including politics, sports, arts, media, public policy, business, and social sectors—to share their experiences and insights on leadership. The event aims to foster collaboration and inspire young audiences through lessons from both successes and failures.
SOUL, an upcoming leadership institution in Gujarat, is designed to nurture leaders dedicated to public service. The institution seeks to expand India’s political leadership landscape by offering formal training to individuals who rise through merit, commitment, and passion, rather than family lineage.
On February 14, Gujarat Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel performed the Bhoomi Poojan ceremony for SOUL’s state-of-the-art campus in Gandhinagar. The campus, to be developed at an estimated cost of ₹150 crore, will cover 22 acres near Gujarat Biotechnology University on GIFT City Road. The construction is expected to be completed within the next two years.
