Bhawanipatna: Quoting the timeless words of Abraham Lincoln, “The best way to predict the future is to create it,” Rajya Sabha MP Sujeet Kumar, during an interactive workshop on “Being Future Ready” at Maa Manikeshwari University (MMU), Bhawanipatna on Saturday, urged students to become the architects of their own destinies.
A distinguished alumnus of the institution, Kumar’s return to MMU was marked by both nostalgia and forward-thinking ambition. Addressing a packed Juba Sanskar Hall, he encouraged students to move beyond merely forecasting the future and instead take bold steps toward building it. He also announced plans for significant international student exposure.
The day began with a symbolic gesture. Kumar, alongside the Vice Chancellor and NSS volunteers, participated in a tree plantation drive on campus. The initiative aligned with Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s ‘Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam’ campaign, reinforcing the day’s theme of nurturing growth and shaping the future.
Kumar shared the stage with Acting Vice Chancellor Dr. Nibedita Nath, Dr. Kailash Chandra Das, Head of the Political Science Department, and Dr. Pallishree Pattnayak, Head of the Odia Department.
Reflecting on his journey from MMU’s campus, then a college, to the Parliament of India, Kumar captivated the audience with practical advice and personal anecdotes. He spoke of managing time as a powerful ally, embracing responsibility, and using education as a tool to uplift others.
He emphasized the importance of passion, focus, and resilience in overcoming challenges, particularly in an era dominated by digital distractions. Kumar also highlighted the crucial role of communication skills, including public speaking and technological fluency such as in AI, for success in the global workforce.
In a live demonstration of confidence-building, Kumar invited three young women from the audience to the stage and encouraged them to introduce themselves, helping them overcome stage fear.
The event’s highlight came with the announcement of an international mentorship initiative. Kumar revealed that MMU would partner with foreign universities to offer mentorship programs, and that a select group of students could have the opportunity to visit Australia next year, a declaration that drew enthusiastic applause.
In her vote of thanks, Dr. Pattnayak praised Kumar as a “cultural ambassador of Kalahandi,” citing his efforts in promoting the region’s indigenous arts globally, from the UAE to Russia.
The event concluded not just as a workshop but as a turning point, leaving MMU students with renewed purpose and a compelling vision for the future they are now inspired to create.
