Arun Srivastava / Prayagraj
Leader of Opposition in the Lok Sabha Rahul Gandhi on Saturday said the collective voice of students and young people would bring about change, as he addressed the ‘Chhatron Ki Goonj’ programme at KP Inter College in Prayagraj, Uttar Pradesh.
Addressing a large gathering of students and youth, Gandhi said young people had begun raising their voice against what he described as a “corrupt and hollow” education system. He assured students that he would continue to stand with them in their fight for their rights and opportunities.
The Congress leader also raised concerns over alleged recurring paper leaks in Uttar Pradesh, accusing the state government of failing to address problems affecting students preparing for competitive examinations. He said he could list several instances of paper leaks since Yogi Adityanath became Chief Minister.
Recalling Prayagraj’s historical association with education and his family’s connection with the city, Gandhi said the city was once regarded as a major centre of knowledge. He said he had come to discuss three major issues with students—“pain, data and wealth”.
Emphasising the importance of India’s young population, Gandhi said the country has around 40 crore young people who represent its biggest strength. According to him, India’s progress in the 21st century would depend largely on two assets—youth power and data.
He linked the issue of youth and data with the rapid expansion of artificial intelligence, arguing that AI depends on data generated by people. “AI can be created using data, but AI cannot create data,” he said, while stressing that the imagination, potential and data of young Indians constitute an important national resource.
Gandhi further alleged that students and their families spend large sums on medical, engineering and other professional education but often struggle to find suitable employment afterwards. He also criticised the growing dependence on social media and short-form digital content, saying young people need opportunities for education, skills and jobs.
Several students also shared their concerns directly with Gandhi during the programme.
