Hyderabad: A Platform to Build Leadership and Critical Thinking Skills
India’s International Movement to Unite Nations (IIMUN) launched its Hyderabad 2025 conference on Friday. The event aims to nurture leadership qualities and critical thinking among students.
The inauguration ceremony took place at Johnson Grammar School and was attended by over 1,000 students representing more than 100 educational institutions across the city. A keynote address was delivered by Dr. Shashi Tharoor, a prominent Indian politician, writer, and former diplomat.
In his speech, Dr. Tharoor shared valuable advice on entering politics, emphasizing that individuals should join this field only if they are passionate about serving others. He urged students to pursue careers with a sense of purpose rather than focusing solely on convenience. Integrity and responsibility, he noted, are essential for anyone aspiring to be a public servant.
Dr. Tharoor also spoke about his personal experiences, particularly his love for reading. He described how books served as an escape during his younger years. Highlighting the importance of language and communication, he mentioned his latest works, including “Battle of Ideas: The Essence of the Constitution” and “Wonderland of Words.”
Lieutenant General Neeraj Varshney, another esteemed speaker at the event, stressed the significance of truth, discernment, and leadership. Quoting ancient Indian texts like the Rigveda, he reminded the audience that “truth always triumphs.” He engaged students by asking them questions about famous quotes, sparking critical thinking and interaction.
The General offered practical advice for living a meaningful life. He encouraged students to avoid ignorance, addiction, and dishonesty. He highlighted the importance of managing time effectively, learning from nature, and honing observational skills to achieve success.
Concluding his address, General Varshney emphasized that leadership is not limited to specific professions. Leadership, he said, is a universal quality needed in all aspects of life and requires traits like empathy, determination, courage, and a strong drive to succeed.
The Hyderabad 2025 conference provided a valuable platform for students to learn, reflect, and develop essential skills for the future.