Observing that education occupies a crucial position, President Pratibha Patil said India is an emerging global power and the biggest challenge before the country was to educate youths to meet various needs for developing the nation.

“India stands at a crucial stage. It has many advantages including a predominantly young population and one of the world’s fastest growing economies… the biggest challenge is to prepare the youth, who are educated and capable to meet various needs and requirements for developing the nation,” Patil said.

Addressing the 75th Founder’s Day celebrations of the Doon School in Dehra Dun as the Chief Guest, she said, “We have to be able to compete with the finest minds in the world.”

In this regard, she appreciated the Centre for making primary education a fundamental right for children in the 6-14 age-group.

“This was a significant decision of the government and I would like to appreciate the efforts of Kapil Sibal, Minister of Human Resource Development,” she said.

“We are moving towards universalisation of education at the secondary level. Higher education is being accorded priority,” she said, adding, this would require commitment and performance on the part of all stakeholders.

Girls should be allowed to study in Doon School: President

President Pratibha Patil said on Saturday that girls should not be deprived of the opportunity of studying in the famous Doon School.

“Girls should not be deprived of the opportunity of studying in this wonderful school,” she said.

Patil’s comments came after Uttarakhand Governor Margaret Alva expressed similar views initiating a debate among the audience and teachers whether girls should also be allowed to study in one of the most prestigious educational institutions.

Pointing out the policy of the school not to give admission to girls, the Governor said she wished that the school change it