Page:Convocation Addresses of the Universities of Bombay and Madras.djvu/96

 their labours. From the former we have the first M.D. of the University, and also the satisfactory results of thirty successful candidates out of 43 in the first L.M. and 16 out of 19 in the final L.M., and of these six in the first class; while from the latter institution we have 21 out of 24 passing in the first C.E. and 9 out of 12 in the L.C.E., of whom 3 were in the First Class. As regards the other examinations, it is to be noted that 4 out of 5 of the M.A's were successful, but none acquired a First Class. In law, however, 50 per cent. passed, a percentage not previously attained for the degree of LL.B., although none attained to the First Class. It is still a doubtful question whether a large return of successful students is really a proof that the mass of the pupils are better prepared than in those years when only few pass, or whether they will do as much credit to the University as those who come out in smaller numbers from the final ordeal. I am not one of those who think our examination system perfect, or that alterations in this, as also in the subjects required for the various degrees, may not be desirable. If Oxford and Cambridge, after the great advances they have made during the last half century, still find they must further increase their borders and reform their systems, to meet the requirements of the times, we must not think our infant University can remain as it is. So fully alive is the Syndicate to this fact, that it has appointed a Committee of its most experienced members to consider and report on these subjects, and I doubt not but the results of their deliberations will be highly beneficial, not only to the University, but to the cause of education generally in the Presidency.

And now, having reviewed the past year's proceedings, I will, in conclusion, say a few words to the graduates and under-graduates of the University. Gentlemen, I have on previous occasions warned you that your real education only commences when your Collegiate course ends. It is after that has closed that it depends on yourselves whether you will make any true use of the educational benefits you have received or not. There must be much which you have to acquire for the purpose of your examinations, which remains, as it were, undigested, and which to become of any real use must be absorbed in your intellectual system. Doubtless with many this latter process cannot take place owing to the mind being overcrowded, and so assimilation is impossible. My advice to you is, do not attempt too many things; settle on one definite object for your future study, and strive to perfect yourselves in it as far as possible. I fear,