President of India addresses first convocation of English and Foreign Languages University, Hyderabad

Speaking on the occasion, the President said: "On the august occasion of the first convocation of the English and Foreign Languages University, as we celebrate the impressive achievements of this University, he wanted to share with them some enduring reflections that ought to guide us in advancing our vision of education."

He stated that to his mind, knowledge must pave the path of life; and living must essentially encompass pursue the path of learning.

From times immemorial the continent of Asia, and South East Asia in particular, opened up novel paths of learning.

Wherever the Buddha traversed - seeds of knowledge sprouted and flourished. Nalanda, after Takshashila, held the beacon of light very high for over a millennium across lands and seas and welcomed drifting seekers of knowledge and provided them a lasting resting place.

The President said that sustaining and reinvigorating higher education, in India as well as in other parts of the world, has become a major challenge, especially so in public institutions.

Challenges exist for such institutions, both from outside and inside. Atleast four distinct factors impinge from outside as well as inside on the administration of an institution of higher learning, Mukherjee said.