Vice Prez Naidu calls upon schools to inculcate national values in children from young age

Hyderabad (Telangana) [India], July 30 : Vice President M Venkaiah Naidu on Saturday called upon schools to forge a strong moral character in children and inculcate the national values of oneness, harmony and universal brotherhood from a young age.
Speaking at the Golden Jubilee celebrations of Hyderabad Public School here, Naidu said "Founding fathers envisioned an India that does not discriminate on the basis of religion, race, caste, sex or even place of birth. Such inclusive and pluralistic values are what makes India a special nation among the comity of nations. Take a pledge to practice and protect these values against all odds."
Complimenting the school on the milestone, he urged making 'excellence' the watchword in educational institutions. He advised schools to "take full advantage of the National Education Policy 2020" and foster an all-around growth and development of students - in intellectual, moral and creative terms.
Touching on the issue of the use of mother tongue in schools, Naidu expressed concern that some schools "look down upon the student's mother tongue and encourage them to speak and learn exclusively in English." He pointed out that "learning and freely communicating in one's mother tongue not only improves the educational outcomes but more importantly, boosts self-esteem and gives a sense of cultural belonging to the students."
Referring to National Education Policy's recommendations, the Vice President wanted a shift in the medium of instruction at the primary level to mother languages and to gradually extend this to higher levels too. "The importance of mother tongue in shaping our childrens personality and moulding their character cannot be overstated," he stressed.
Calling punctuality and discipline as very important attributes for success, he exhorted the students to aim high and work hard to progress in life. Crediting 'discipline, dedication, commitment and hard work' for his reaching the second highest constitutional position in the country, Naidu stressed that "hard work has no substitute."
The Vice President called for encouraging children to take up Indian art and culture from a young age. He said that India has a great tradition of music and dance, which not only form part of intangible cultural heritage but also act as a great stress reliever.