‘Leaders who are both competent and ethical are needed today’

Stressing on ethics and integrity in every walk of life, V.N. Rajasekharan Pillai, Vice-President, Association of Indian Universities and Vice-Chancellor, Somaiya Vidyavihar University, Mumbai, said on Saturday that world needs leaders who are not only competent but also ethical.

Stressing on ethics and integrity in every walk of life, V.N. Rajasekharan Pillai, Vice-President, Association of Indian Universities and Vice-Chancellor, Somaiya Vidyavihar University, Mumbai, said on Saturday that world needs leaders who are not only competent but also ethical.

Delivering the 43rd convocation address at Mangalore University, he told the graduates and postgraduates, “In a time when trust in institutions and leaders is often eroded, your commitment to ethical behaviour will be a beacon of hope and a foundation upon which you can build a successful and fulfilling career.”

Mr. Pillai said that honesty, transparency and fairness should be one’s compass in life. He said that the knowledge and skills acquired come with the responsibility to be used wisely for the benefit of society. “Education is not just a tool for personal success, but as a means to contribute to the greater good,” he said.

Mr. Pillai said that challenges are opportunities for growth and each obstacle one overcomes makes one stronger and more resilient. He added that in today’s interconnected and rapidly-changing world, the ability to think across disciplines is more valuable than ever. “The challenges we face, whether they are related to climate change, public health, social justice, technological innovation or AI are complex and require solutions that draw upon multiple areas of expertise,” he said.