NEW DELHI: The Indraprastha Institute of Information Technology, Delhi (IIIT-Delhi) hosted its 13th convocation ceremony, recognizing the accomplishments of its graduates and inspiring them with speeches from distinguished guests. During the ceremony, 516 B.Tech. graduates across disciplines such as Computer Science & Engineering, Electronics and Communications Engineering, Computer Science and Applied Mathematics, Computer Science and Design, and Computer Science and Artificial Intelligence received their degrees. Additionally, 200 M.Tech. students, including one dual-degree holder in Computer Science & Engineering, Electronics and Communications Engineering, and Computational Biology, along with 29 Ph.D. recipients from fields like Computational Biology, Human-Centered Design, and Social Sciences and Humanities, were awarded degrees.
The Chief Guest, Dr. S. Somanath, Chairman of the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO), delivered the convocation address, encouraging students to contribute meaningfully to society and set high standards of integrity and excellence. He emphasized that graduates should have a strong sense of dedication and vision. “Have Passion: to be fully committed to your work, 24/7. Strive for Excellence, embrace Learnability, and, above all, uphold Humility, Honesty, and Integrity,” he advised.
In a broader message about India’s potential, Dr. Somanath expressed the need for transformational change to position India as a developed nation. “India’s rise to the ranks of the world’s largest economies must be driven by innovation in technology and product development,” he stated. He praised Elon Musk for his pioneering achievements in the space sector, saying, “Elon Musk is inspiring efforts worldwide, including within ISRO. His work in rocketry has captivated everyone from Europe to China.”
Dr. Somanath highlighted India’s progress in space exploration, especially its recent successful lunar missions, while also pointing out the need for continuous technological advancement. “We are currently the fifth-largest global economy, but to move further up, we must innovate in fields like propulsion, materials science, and orbital dynamics,” he said. He welcomed the government’s recent move to open the space sector to private players, describing it as a pivotal step in enhancing India’s competitiveness. “Private sector involvement will drive faster development, reduce costs, and strengthen our standing globally,” he added.
Delhi Lieutenant Governor VK Saxena, Chancellor of IIIT-Delhi, congratulated the graduates, stressing that young Indians share the responsibility of transforming India into a developed nation by 2047. He encouraged them to consider the broader societal impact of their achievements and contribute to national progress beyond personal goals.
In his Director’s Report for 2023-24, Dr. Ranjan Bose, Director of IIIT-Delhi, acknowledged the challenges faced by this graduating batch, who began their studies online during the COVID-19 pandemic. “Their resilience and commitment during such uncertain times demonstrate their dedication,” he remarked, encouraging them to use their skills to address global issues.
In total, the convocation ceremony awarded 516 B.Tech., 199 M.Tech., including a dual-degree M.Tech., and 29 Ph.D. degrees to the graduating students, celebrating their achievements amidst the presence of esteemed leaders and mentors.
New Delhi: ISRO Chairman S Somanath presents certificate to a student during the 13th Convocation of the IIIT Delhi (PTI Photo)