It is the place where the best young minds of a country are encouraged to grow. It is also the place where growth comes to fruition, where new ideas are generated and discussed. The responsibility of the university in our tradition, therefore, is to weigh new ideas in the balance of ancient culture and recent experience. Its unique contribution is to present possibilities for growth and development, both to individuals and to the society as a whole. These functions have never been more important than in today's rapidly changing world.
Every day presents new requirements and calls for new responses.
Today's universities and thinkers have to show themselves equal to the challenge. As you start your journey into the world, to put into practise the many wonderful things you have learned at this great University, you will contribute to the lofty ideals and goals embodied by the United Nations. The United Nations was founded in an optimistic and courageous spirit that envisioned a world of greater peace, security, freedom and prosperity. Fifty-three years later, those aspirations remain at the heart of the UN's purposes, even while the priorities we pursue to achieve them are changing in response to new challenges and preparations for a new century. The UN has provided the essential forum for international debate and consensus-building.