Vice President C. P. Radhakrishnan on Saturday graced the valedictory function of the centenary celebrations of St. Berchmans College in Changanassery, Kerala, describing its 100-year journey as a “saga of nation-building and character formation.”
Calling the visit special, he noted that it was his third trip to the State after assuming office and remarked that “Kerala has become Keralam,” reflecting the deep cultural identity and pride of the region.
Founded in 1922, the college began its journey during the colonial era and served as a centre of intellectual awakening, the Vice-President said. “A 100-year-old college is not just a campus of classrooms and corridors. For a century, it has silently yet steadily contributed to nation-building,” he observed, adding that the institution has shaped both minds and the nation.
Reflecting on its distinguished alumni, he highlighted the contributions of legendary actor Prem Nazir, former Kerala Chief Minister Oommen Chandy, and noted writer and former Chief Minister Vasudevan Nair, remarking that producing two Chief Ministers remains one of the institution’s significant contributions to the State’s development.
Emphasising the broader purpose of education, the Vice-President said that education is the most powerful tool for transformation. “Education builds character; an educated citizen shapes society and the nation,” he stated, urging students to cultivate lifelong learning and mutual respect.
He underlined that the era when education produced clerks for colonial administration is long over. Stressing the importance of research and technological innovation, he said India must move beyond merely adopting technologies. “The time of adopting technology is over. We must become creators of technology so that the world adopts what we produce,” he said, expressing confidence in the country’s youth-driven transformation.
Referring to the vision of Viksit Bharat under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, he said institutions like St. Berchmans College would play a pivotal role in shaping responsible citizens, innovators and leaders for a developed India.
Invoking the college motto, Caritas Vera Nobilitas (Charity is True Nobility), he remarked that true nobility lies not in birth or wealth but in the spirit of giving. Charity, he said, extends beyond financial contributions and includes kind words, time, guidance and emotional support. “Living for oneself is not bad, but living only for oneself is bad,” he added, urging students to give back to society.
Addressing the student community, he said, “You are the second century of this college. The next hundred years will be written by your ideas, your courage and your commitment. Dream big. Work hard. Stay rooted in values.”
During the event, the Vice-President also inaugurated the Berchmans Centre for Emerging Technologies and the Dr. K. M. Abraham Centre for Energy and Environment as part of the centenary celebrations.
The ceremony was attended by Kerala Governor Rajendra Vishwanath Arlekar, Union Minister of State Suresh Gopi, State Minister V. N. Vasavan, Member of Parliament Kodikunnil Suresh, MLA Job Michael, Archbishop Mar Thomas Tharayil, Principal Dr. Teddy Kanjooparampil, Manager Antony Ethackad and other dignitaries.
