Societal development happens only through the hard work of many unsung heroes. Those who develop their potential by drawing on the resources of the society need to pay back after they graduate. Dr. C. M. Annadurai conveyed his gratitude for inviting him to deliver the Convocation Address at Annamalai University in 1967. He wished the fresh graduates a prosperous future. He accepted that is was difficult to provide them with appropriate guidelines to success in life. However, he shared cardinal principles enunciated by those eminent scholars who had done so earlier. He chose to replay those ideas as a common man as he interpreted them without any sophistication of language. Universities in the past gave access to scholars and poets to adorn the chambers of royalty.
They were for royal mansion and not for market place. Today universities have the responsibility to fashion out of every individual fitted and equipped for the task of making democracy fruitful and effective. According to Dr. Radhakrishnan, “Universities ensure the democratic way of life for the future generations.” Though earning a decent living is an important objective, it shouldn’t be the only objective. The university graduate should feel indebted to the community. Universities are sustained by the revenue paid by peasants and poor people. Unless graduates replenish the social chest, it will become an empty offer.
The speaker was quite aware of the social challenges the graduates might face. He advised them to emulate men and woman endowed with the spirit of service and carry on the crusade against poverty and other social ills. He was hopeful that Tamils, being the inheritors of a great culture will have the strength to over come social challenges and serve the society to the best of their abilities. He wished that they were bound to win and brighten the entire land.