New Delhi- President Droupadi Murmu said that all educational institutions should ensure a safe and welcoming environment for girls. She made this statement during the 21st convocation ceremony of Symbiosis University in Pune on Tuesday.

The President emphasised the importance of inclusive development and said that eight out of the eleven gold medalists in the university were girls. She also said that the healthcare sector should focus on the development of products keeping in mind the needs of the underprivileged sections of society.

Noting that among the approximately 33000 students studying in Symbiosis International, the number of boys and girls is almost equal, the President said that the progress of Nari Shakti is not only a matter of pride for citizens, it is also an important parameter for the development of the country. She was happy to note that Symbiosis Deemed University is giving priority to gender equity and providing a proper environment and facilities for girls’ education. She urged all educational institutions to encourage girl students for higher education and create a safe and supportive environment for them.

In her speech, the President also expressed her hope that the international students of the university would use their knowledge and skills to contribute to the betterment of humanity in their respective countries. This function was attended by the Governor of Maharashtra C.P. Radhakrishnan and State Higher and Technical Education Minister, Chandrakant Patil.