Karnataka State Congress President and Chief Minister-designate D. K. Shivakumar on Monday extended greetings to students on the commencement of the new academic year, urging them to build upon the legacy of the state’s premier educational and scientific institutions. He emphasized that Karnataka has long been home to globally recognised institutions such as the Indian Institute of Science (IISc), Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO), Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) and the National Law School of India University (NLSIU).
Speaking to students at the start of the academic year, Shivakumar encouraged them to draw inspiration from Karnataka’s strong academic and scientific ecosystem. He said that generations of students from the state have gone on to contribute significantly in fields such as science, technology, law and public service, and added that this legacy should be carried forward with greater ambition in the era of rapid technological change.
He highlighted the importance of education in shaping the state’s future workforce, noting that Artificial Intelligence and other emerging technologies are transforming global opportunities. Shivakumar indicated that the government would soon share its vision for strengthening education policy, particularly at the primary level, to ensure that students are better prepared for future challenges.
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Addressing students from rural backgrounds, he urged them not to feel disadvantaged compared to their urban counterparts. He said that Karnataka’s teachers and schools continue to produce strong academic outcomes, including SSLC examination results, and assured that efforts would be made to further improve the quality and accessibility of education across the state.
When asked about the ongoing controversy related to dress code issues in educational institutions, including the hijab and saffron shawl debate, Shivakumar declined to comment in detail. He stated that such matters would be discussed at an appropriate time and stressed that the focus at present should remain on the reopening of schools and academic priorities rather than political controversies.
He reiterated that both the current and future leadership would continue working to strengthen educational opportunities and infrastructure in Karnataka. Shivakumar later stated that he and senior party leader Siddaramaiah were scheduled to travel to New Delhi, and he refrained from making further political remarks.
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