Mizoram Chief Minister Lalduhoma has called on students to view higher education as a journey of personal growth and leadership rather than simply a means of earning academic degrees, saying universities should nurture critical thinking, compassion and responsibility among young people.
Addressing postgraduate students at the Deeksharambh-2026 student induction programme of The Assam Royal Global University on Wednesday, Lalduhoma said institutions of higher learning have an important role in preparing students to meet the demands of a rapidly changing world.
Encouraging students to make the most of their academic years, he urged them to look beyond classrooms and examinations and embrace learning as a lifelong process. He said education should help individuals develop the ability to think independently and make informed decisions.
“The true purpose of higher education is to teach individuals how to think, not what to think,” the Chief Minister said, stressing the importance of critical thinking, intellectual curiosity and independent judgement in shaping future leaders.
Lalduhoma said universities should do much more than impart academic knowledge. According to him, higher educational institutions should help students develop compassion, responsibility and a clear vision so that they can contribute meaningfully to society and respond effectively to emerging global challenges.
He also highlighted the need for universities to produce graduates who possess not only professional knowledge and skills but also strong values and leadership qualities. Such qualities, he said, are essential for bringing about positive social change and serving communities with commitment and integrity.
Urging students to approach higher education with a broader perspective, Lalduhoma encouraged them to use their academic journey to build character, strengthen their sense of purpose and prepare themselves for lifelong learning. He said the knowledge and values gained during university education would enable them to become responsible citizens and leaders capable of addressing the challenges of the future.
