Bucharest, July 24, 2026 (Yes Punjab News)
President Droupadi Murmu on Friday described education as the “single-most transformative force” in her life while receiving the Honorary Doctorate (Doctor Honoris Causa), the highest academic distinction of the Bucharest University of Economic Studies in Romania.
Accepting the honour, President Murmu reflected on her personal journey, saying she was born into a modest family in a small village and became the first girl from her village to attend college.
“Education is the great equaliser. It does not ask where you were born; only how far you are willing to travel,” she said, adding that her own life stands as a testament to the transformative power of learning.
The honorary doctorate was conferred in recognition of her contributions to academia, public service and international cooperation. Murmu dedicated the honour to the people of India, describing it as a reflection of the enduring friendship between India and Romania.
Recalling her years as a teacher, the President said even modest classrooms have the power to transform families and communities. She stressed that in an era of artificial intelligence and rapid scientific advancement, universities must ensure that knowledge is guided by wisdom, ethics and compassion.
Highlighting the longstanding cultural ties between India and Romania, Murmu referred to Rabindranath Tagore’s visit to Bucharest in 1926 and noted that celebrated Romanian poet Mihai Eminescu had studied the Upanishads and the Bhagavad Gita.
The ceremony, attended by students, faculty members and dignitaries, marked the final engagement of President Murmu’s six-day state visit to Moldova, North Macedonia and Romania.
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