Kanpur: Uttar Pradesh Governor Anandiben Patel has said that women should strive to become “expert mothers” before aspiring to become IAS officers or teachers, while emphasizing the importance of balancing professional ambitions with family responsibilities. Her remarks, made during the 41st convocation ceremony of Chhatrapati Shahu Ji Maharaj University (CSJMU) in Kanpur, have drawn widespread attention.
Addressing students, parents and faculty members, the Governor stressed that education should not only create successful professionals but also responsible citizens with strong moral values. She encouraged women to continue their education and careers after marriage while also fulfilling their responsibilities toward family and society.
‘Become an Expert Mother Before an IAS Officer’
Speaking at the convocation, Governor Patel said women should not abandon their professional aspirations after marriage but should also be prepared to take on family responsibilities.
“Whether you become an IAS officer or a teacher, first become an expert mother. Everyone should know how to cook the food prepared at home.”
She urged young women to use their education, knowledge and skills for nation-building, stating that career growth and family life should complement each other rather than be viewed as competing priorities.
Women Should Continue Education After Marriage
The Governor emphasised that marriage should not become a barrier to higher education or professional advancement.
She encouraged women to continue pursuing their careers while contributing to the well-being of their families and society.
According to Patel, education should empower women to play meaningful roles both at home and in public life.
Parents Must Remain Involved in Children’s Lives
During her address, Anandiben Patel also appealed to parents to remain actively involved in their children’s upbringing even after they enter schools or universities.
She said, “Parents should know what their children are doing after they enter educational institutions. Even a small lapse in supervision can adversely affect their future.”
She added that parents should not consider their responsibility complete merely after securing admission for their children in educational institutions.
Education Must Build Moral Values
Expressing concern over increasing incidents of domestic violence and crimes against women, the Governor said academic success alone cannot ensure a progressive society.
She remarked, “If degrees are increasing but society continues to witness such crimes, it reflects the true state of our education. Moral values are as important as academic knowledge.”
According to Patel, educational institutions should focus equally on character-building, ethics and social responsibility.
Women Dominated Medal Winners
Highlighting the achievements of female students, the Governor noted that 1,07,713 students were awarded degrees during the 41st convocation, with women securing nearly 82 per cent of the medals.
She described this as a positive sign of women’s growing participation and success in higher education.
Concerns Over Drug Abuse Near Campuses
The Governor also spoke about the issue of drug abuse around university campuses.
She said a Raj Bhavan monitoring team had uncovered a network in which drugs were allegedly being supplied through food delivery containers near university hostels before the racket was dismantled.
Patel called for greater vigilance from educational institutions, parents and law enforcement agencies to protect students from substance abuse.
Focus on Women’s Welfare
In recent weeks, Governor Anandiben Patel has consistently highlighted issues concerning women’s empowerment and social welfare. She has advocated greater awareness of women’s health, called for stronger action against child marriage, and advised students to become financially independent before marriage.
Her latest remarks have once again brought attention to the relationship between education, professional aspirations, family responsibilities and moral values in society.
