align=left>New Delhi, Sep 29 (IANS): Union Human Resource Development Minister Prakash Javadekar on Wednesday lauded contribution of Jamia Millia Islamia, saying that it was not only imparting good education but also shaping its students into good human beings.
Inaugurating a newly constructed Girls Hostel, which has been named after freedom fighter, Begum Hazrat Mahal, he emphasised on women's empowerment, noting that about 100 years ago it was impossible for girls to get education.
"This resulted in the country losing out enormous potential as today we see women not only participating but excelling in various fields," he said.
The minister said that Narendra Modi government's 'Beti Bachao, Beti padhao' campaign has given fresh impetus to girls' education in the country.
Javadekar also expressed concern that a large number of youth are unable to enrol for higher education, and stressed the need to correct this trend.
The minister said that country's strength lies in its plural ethos and readiness to accept all cultures and traditions, and hostel residents were privileged to learn from such an experience.
"Unity in diversity is what this country exemplifies," the minister added.