Expert Mothers Should Balance Career And Family: UP Governor
Uttar Pradesh Governor Anandiben Patel has sparked a nationwide debate after urging women to first become “expert mothers” before aspiring to become IAS officers or teachers. Speaking at the 41st convocation ceremony of a university in Kanpur, Patel said professional success should go hand in hand with family responsibilities, stressing that education should shape both careers and character.
The Governor, who also serves as the Chancellor of state universities, addressed students, parents and faculty members, encouraging young women to continue their education and careers after marriage while maintaining a strong commitment to family values and nation-building.
Women Encouraged To Continue Education After Marriage
Addressing the graduating students, Anandiben Patel said women should never abandon their education after marriage. Instead, they should use their knowledge and professional skills to contribute to both society and the country’s development.
She said becoming an IAS officer or a teacher is a remarkable achievement, but women should also prepare themselves to become responsible mothers capable of nurturing future generations.
Patel also highlighted the importance of learning household skills, stating that everyone should know how to cook food prepared at home, describing such abilities as an essential part of life.
Education Should Build Values Along With Careers
The Governor stressed that education should not be judged only by academic degrees or examination scores. According to her, the true purpose of education is to build responsible citizens with strong moral values.
She expressed concern over the increasing incidents of domestic violence and crimes against women, saying these reflect a decline in ethical values despite growing educational qualifications.
Patel urged educational institutions to place equal emphasis on discipline, ethics and character development alongside academic excellence.
Parents Must Stay Connected With Their Children
During her speech, the Governor also advised parents to remain actively involved in their children’s lives even after they enter colleges and universities.
She said parental guidance should continue throughout a child’s educational journey, warning that even minor lapses in supervision can negatively affect their future.
Patel encouraged parents to stay informed about their children’s academic progress, social environment and overall well-being.
Governor Raises Concern Over Drug Abuse Near Campuses
Highlighting another major issue, Patel spoke about drug abuse around educational institutions.
She revealed that a monitoring team formed by Raj Bhavan had uncovered cases where narcotics were allegedly supplied through food delivery containers near university hostels. She said administrative action helped dismantle the network and stressed the need for continued vigilance to ensure safe campuses for students.
Women Dominate Convocation Awards
The convocation also celebrated academic excellence, with the university awarding degrees to more than 1.07 lakh students.
Women emerged as the top performers by securing nearly 82 percent of all medals awarded during the ceremony.
BSc Agriculture graduate Priya Yadav received the prestigious Chancellor’s Gold Medal along with four additional medals after topping the university.
Patel congratulated all graduates and urged them to use their education for the betterment of society.
Recent Speeches Focus On Women’s Welfare
The Kanpur convocation is part of a series of recent addresses by the Governor focusing on women’s education, health and empowerment.
Earlier this week, at a mother-daughter conference in Lucknow, she called for greater awareness about women’s health, nutrition, anaemia, menstruation, pregnancy and maternal care. She also instructed universities to organise regular health check-ups, install BMI testing facilities and introduce courses on maternal health and “garbh sanskar.”
In another convocation held in Lucknow, Patel advised students to become financially independent before marriage. While clarifying that she does not oppose love marriages, she encouraged young people to make informed life decisions only after achieving financial self-reliance.
Governor Calls For A Balance Between Success And Responsibility
Concluding her address, Anandiben Patel reiterated that education should empower individuals to excel professionally while remaining committed to family responsibilities and social values.
She encouraged graduates to pursue ambitious careers, continue learning throughout life and contribute meaningfully to both their families and the nation. According to the Governor, true education is reflected not only in professional success but also in responsibility, compassion and strong moral character.
