Union Minister of Social Justice & Empowerment, Dr. Virendra Kumar today emphasized the importance of listening to the younger generation, understanding their concerns and creating an environment where they feel comfortable sharing their thoughts and challenges.

Addressing the school students at the Dr. Ambedkar International Centre (DAIC) during the programme “The Fifth Space – Where Education Meets Responsibility”, in the National Capital here today, Dr Kumar underlined that the rapidly changing digital environment requires parents, teachers and institutions to engage with young people with understanding rather than simply criticizing their use of technology.

The programme was organised by the National Commission for Women (NCW) in collaboration with DAIC, UNESCO New Delhi and Mount Abu Public School.

Dr. Virendra Kumar emphasised the importance of maintaining strong emotional connections between students, parents and teachers, enabling young people to seek guidance and support when facing difficulties.

The Minister also underscored the importance of recognizing the individual strengths, aspirations and needs of every child. He stressed the need to move from Vision To Insight (Drishti Se Antardrishti Ki Aur) — from merely seeing things to understanding them deeply and meaningfully

Dr Kumar spoke about the concept of the “Fifth Space”, which represents the convergence of home, school, culture, society, citizenship, knowledge and the digital world. He stressed that technology must be accompanied by ethics, responsibility and sound judgement, particularly among young people growing up in an increasingly digital environment.

The interaction provided students an opportunity to raise questions and share their perspectives directly with the Union Minister. The Minister encouraged the students to remain curious, responsible and conscious of their role in shaping the future of the country.

The programme also witnessed deliberations on child rights, safety, gender equality, human dignity, digital responsibility and responsible citizenship by distinguished speakers including Dr. Sanjeev Sharma, Member Secretary, National Commission for Protection of Child Rights (NCPCR); Dr. Jyoti Arora, Principal, Mount Abu Public School and Vijaya Kishore Rahat, Chairperson, National Commission for Women.

The interaction between the Union Minister and the students highlighted the importance of bridging the generational gap through dialogue, empathy and mutual understanding, while ensuring that education prepares young people not only for academic success but also for responsible and dignified citizenship.

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