BUCHAREST (Romania), July 24: President Droupadi Murmu was awarded the prestigious Doctor Honoris Causa, the highest academic distinction of the Bucharest University of Economic Studies (BUES), during her State Visit to Romania on Friday. The honour recognizes her contributions to public service, education, and strengthening international cooperation.
The ceremony marked a significant milestone in India-Romania relations, celebrating shared democratic values and the growing partnership between the two nations in education, culture, and global engagement.
Accepting the honorary doctorate, President Murmu expressed heartfelt gratitude to the university community, stating that the recognition was not merely a personal achievement but a tribute to the aspirations of India’s 1.4 billion citizens and the enduring friendship between India and Romania.
She thanked the Rector, the University Senate, and the academic fraternity for conferring one of Romania’s highest educational honours, describing the award as a symbol of mutual respect and cooperation between the two countries.
Education Changed My Life, Says President Murmu
Reflecting on her own journey, President Murmu shared how education transformed her life despite growing up in a financially modest family in a small Indian village.
She recalled being the first girl from her village to pursue higher education, saying the experience convinced her that education remains the most powerful tool for creating equal opportunities.
According to the President, education never judges a person’s background but instead rewards determination, perseverance, and the willingness to learn.
She said this belief has guided her throughout her public life and continues to shape her vision for an inclusive and progressive society.
Teaching Experience Strengthened Her Faith in Education
President Murmu also spoke about her experience as a teacher before entering public service.
She noted that working in classrooms allowed her to witness how quality education can transform not only individual lives but also entire families and communities over generations.
The President emphasized that learning should never be viewed only as a path to employment. Instead, she described education as the strongest pillar for building a fair, compassionate, and inclusive society where every citizen has equal opportunities to succeed.
Universities Must Balance Technology with Ethics
Addressing students and faculty members, President Murmu highlighted the growing influence of artificial intelligence, digital innovation, and scientific advancement across the world.
She said educational institutions now carry an even greater responsibility to ensure that technological progress is guided by ethical values, wisdom, and compassion.
According to her, universities should prepare students not only with technical expertise but also with a strong moral foundation so they can contribute responsibly to society in an increasingly digital world.
Shared Cultural Heritage Strengthens India-Romania Relations
President Murmu underlined the deep historical and cultural links connecting India and Romania despite the geographical distance between the two nations.
She recalled Nobel laureate Rabindranath Tagore’s visit to Bucharest nearly a century ago, where he spoke about the unity of humanity and found a deep appreciation for Indian philosophy among the Romanian people.
The President also referred to Romania’s celebrated poet Mihai Eminescu, whose studies of the Upanishads and the Bhagavad Gita significantly influenced his literary works.
She said these cultural connections reflect the timeless Indian philosophy of Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam—the belief that the world is one family—a principle that continues to shape India’s global outlook based on cooperation, dialogue, and shared responsibility.
Education Remains a Strong Pillar of Bilateral Cooperation
Highlighting the educational partnership between the two countries, President Murmu acknowledged Romania’s long-standing role in welcoming Indian students, especially in medicine, engineering, and technology.
She said academic exchanges have strengthened people-to-people ties while creating opportunities for future collaboration in research, innovation, and higher education.
The President encouraged students to remain curious, confident, and compassionate, reminding them that true success is measured not only through professional accomplishments but also by the positive impact they create in the lives of others.
University Recognizes President Murmu’s Inspiring Journey
Professor Gheorghe Hurduzeu, President of the University Senate, said the decision to confer the honorary doctorate received unanimous approval from the Senate following a recommendation by the university’s Council for Administration.
He described President Murmu’s remarkable life journey as a global example of how education can overcome social and economic barriers, inspiring millions across the world.
According to him, the honour reflects the university’s admiration for a leader whose commitment to education, public service, and inclusive development continues to inspire future generations.
Strengthening Academic and Diplomatic Relations
President Murmu’s visit to Romania and the conferment of the Doctor Honoris Causa underline the expanding partnership between India and Romania across education, diplomacy, and cultural cooperation.
The recognition also reinforces the shared commitment of both countries to promoting knowledge, innovation, and people-centric development while encouraging stronger academic collaboration in the years ahead.