Nitra [Slovakia], April 11 (ANI): President Droupadi Murmu on Thursday (local time) was conferred with the Doctorate Honoris Causa degree by the Constantine the Philosopher University in Slovakia during her two-day state visit to the country.

According to a post by the President's Secretariat on X, the University awarded President Murmu the honorary degree in recognition of her work in public service and governance, advocacy for social justice and inclusion, contributions to education, women's empowerment, and preservation and promotion of cultural and linguistic diversity.

The President further expressed her gratitude to the university for the recognition, highlighting the role of education in reducing societal inequalities.

'Constantine the Philosopher University conferred Honoris Causa Doctorate degree on President Droupadi Murmu at a ceremony held at Nitra, Slovakia. The President thanked the University for this recognition. The University has conferred the degree upon President Murmu for her distinguished career in public service and governance, advocacy for social justice and inclusion, and contribution towards education, women empowerment and preservation and promotion of cultural and linguistic diversity. Highlighting the importance of education on this occasion, the President said that it neutralises societal inequities, ensuring that the benefits of growth reach even the most marginalized,' President's Secretariat stated on X.

https://x.com/rashtrapatibhvn/status/1910351336379425230

Speaking at the event, President Murmu said, 'I am deeply honoured to be here in the historic city of Nitra, and to receive this prestigious Honorary Doctorate from Constantine The Philosopher University. This is an honour that is being bestowed upon a country and civilization that has been a beacon of peace and learning since time immemorial.'

'Education is a means not only for individual empowerment but for national development as well. Recognising this, India has placed education at the heart of its national development strategy. Just as Saint Constantine Cyril's work laid the foundation for Slavic linguistic and cultural identity, Indian philosophical traditions have long shaped the intellectual and spiritual fabric of our society,' She further stated.

The Ministry of External Affairs also took to X, stating that the degree was awarded in recognition of President Murmu's career and contributions in various areas, including public service and education.

'A special honour in Slovakia! President Droupadi Murmu was conferred with the Doctorate Honoris Causa degree by the Constantine the Philosopher University in Slovakia. This title is in recognition of President Murmu's distinguished career in public service & governance, advocacy for social justice and inclusion, and contribution towards education, women empowerment & preservation and promotion of cultural and linguistic diversity,' MEA stated.

https://x.com/MEAIndia/status/1910352308652622210

President Murmu arrived in Slovakia at the invitation of Slovakian President Peter Pellegrini. It is the first visit by an Indian president to Slovakia in 29 years. She arrived in Slovakia after completing the first leg of her visit in Portugal. (ANI)