Tamil Nadu Chief Minister M K Stalin made significant announcements during the convocation ceremony at Dr J Jayalalithaa Music and Fine Arts University in Chennai on Friday, emphasizing his government's commitment to the institution despite its association with former CM J Jayalalithaa.
Political Dignity and Equal Treatment
The Chief Minister firmly stated that his administration has shown no discrimination toward the university named after his political predecessor. "We have not shown any discrimination to this university. On the contrary we expanded it with new courses, higher grants and new facilities since 2021," Stalin declared during his address to graduates.
He emphasized the importance of maintaining political dignity in governance, noting that "This is the political dignity I want to bring. Though this approach faded away in between, it should continue in future." This statement highlighted his government's approach to continuing development initiatives regardless of political affiliations.
Four Major Announcements for University Development
Stalin unveiled four key initiatives aimed at strengthening the university and promoting fine arts across Tamil Nadu. The announcements represent substantial investments in arts education and infrastructure.
The annual grant for the university will be increased from 3 crore to 5 crore rupees to enhance teaching quality and administrative capabilities. This significant funding boost demonstrates the government's commitment to supporting the institution's growth and development.
Responding to a request from Parai exponent and Padma Shri awardee Velmurugan (known as Velu Asan), the government will establish a folk arts training school. Land has been allocated for this purpose at Valaiyankulam in Madurai district, ensuring proper facilities for preserving traditional art forms.
Academic Expansion and Skill Development
In the fine arts stream, a new master's degree program in art preservation will be introduced starting from the 2026-2027 academic year. This program addresses the growing need for professionals skilled in conserving cultural heritage and artworks.
The state's popular Naan Mudhalvan skill training program will be expanded to include music and fine arts students. The expanded program will offer modules in English communication and digital skills, providing arts students with essential tools for professional success in the modern economy.
Stalin highlighted the importance of balancing traditional arts with contemporary skills, noting that technology, including artificial intelligence, could not replace human creativity. He urged graduates to view emerging tools as support systems rather than substitutes for their artistic talents.
The Chief Minister encouraged artists to continuously learn digital skills, citing actor Kamal Haasan's recent engagement with AI courses as an example worth following. He also emphasized that art should be utilized to address social issues affecting young people while strengthening language, culture and community identity.
During the convocation ceremony, Stalin conferred honorary doctorates on actor Sivakumar and painter Chandru, recognizing their significant contributions to the arts in Tamil Nadu.
