The University of Mauritius conferred Honoris Causa Degree of Doctor of Civil Law on the President of India, Smt Droupadi Murmu on Tuesday (March 12, 202

Speaking on the occasion, the President said that universities like the University of Mauritius are not just ladders to the dreams of aspirational youth; they are sites where the future of mankind is forged.

She added that she was especially honoured to receive the Honorary Degree of Doctor of Civil Law from this prestigious University.

She expressed confidence that it will inspire all young people, particularly young women, to discover their unique passion and pursue their dreams.

President Murmu spoke of her personal experience of the transformative impact of the power of education, noting that it is education that takes us from vulnerability and deprivation, to opportunities and hope.

The President said that the Government of India has made it a priority to educate and empower youth to lead India into the ‘knowledge economy’ of tomorrow. She expressed confidence that India’s forward-looking new National Education Policy will tap into India’s demographic dividend to become a power house of innovation that enhances the well being of humanity.

The President said that in this exciting journey into the future, India looks forward to partnering its special friends, like Mauritius.

She was happy to note that each year, 400 Mauritians are trained in India under Indian Technical and Economic Cooperation (ITEC) programme and about 60 Mauritian students receive scholarships to pursue higher education in India.

The President said that India sees Mauritius as a close maritime neighbour, a cherished partner in the Indian Ocean Region, and a key player in its Africa outreach.

Noting that robust people-to-people linkages have been the very foundation of the special friendship between India and Mauritius, she expressed confidence that the youth of Mauritius and India will continue to deepen this special partnership.