Students are the architects of the future of the country, and they should look forward to the next 80 years with a sense of purpose in the growth of the country, said Rohit Ramesh, Director, The Hindu Group, on Saturday.

In his inaugural address at the 80th Independence Day celebrations, which was organised by VIT at its campus in Vellore, Mr. Ramesh said that educational institutions such as VIT play a crucial role in shaping young minds into innovators and dreamers. “Students should dream big and work hard as the country’s future remains in their hands,” he said.

Mr. Ramesh stressed that everyone should remember the sacrifices of those who fought for the freedom of the country. “We are the inheritors of a legacy of courage, resilience, and unity in diversity,” he said.

Earlier, Mr. Ramesh hoisted the flag in the sprawling campus in the presence of Sankar Viswanathan and Sekar Viswanathan, vice-presidents, VIT, faculty members, students, and parents.

The celebrations featured an impressive NCC parade, a stirring rendition of Vande Mataram by the university choir, the distribution of Honesty Awards, an entertaining dog show featuring Ruby and Rita, and a vibrant university team rally.