- Third GLS University–UTS College Australia Convocation transforms a graduation ceremony into a powerful lesson on courage, participation and global ambition
- Chandni Kapadia’s moving story of a child waving a green flag becomes the defining metaphor for embracing life’s journey with determination and purpose
- International programme opens global pathways for Ahmedabad students as UTS College and GLS University celebrate a new generation of future-ready graduates
- “This is just the beginning—be the best version of yourself, trust yourself, and you will be great,” graduates are told as they step onto the world stage
NE EDUCATION BUREAU
AHMEDABAD, JUNE 15
The third convocation ceremony of the GLS University–UTS College (Australia) International Global Programme was much more than the conferral of diplomas—it became a celebration of resilience, aspiration and the transformative power of education that transcends borders.
As proud parents, faculty members and friends watched graduates don academic robes and prepare to embark on international academic journeys, the evening unfolded into an inspiring reflection on life itself, reminding students that success is built not merely on achievement but on the courage to participate despite limitations.
Delivering the keynote message, Dr. Chandni Kapadia, Executive Director and International Director of GLS University, captivated the audience with a simple yet profound story from a campus construction site.
She recalled watching children playing an improvised game of “train-train,” where one boy, unable to become a passenger, chose instead to stand at the end waving a green cloth as the train guard.
“He couldn’t join the train, yet chose to be part of it,” she said.
“Life doesn’t wait for you to have everything; it asks if you will show up with what you have.”
Her poignant observation resonated deeply with the graduating class, transforming an ordinary childhood scene into a timeless lesson on resilience, inclusion and the importance of embracing every opportunity life presents.
The ceremony celebrated students completing the prestigious international pathway programme conducted jointly by GLS University and UTS College, Australia, many of whom are now expected to continue their higher education in Australia and build careers on the global stage.
Presenting the student progression report, Dr. Dharmesh Shah, Provost of GLS University, highlighted the remarkable academic journey of the graduating cohort and the expanding international opportunities available through the collaborative programme.
Representatives from UTS College, Peter Harris and Aline Chiron, underscored the growing strength of the partnership and the global pathways it continues to create for aspiring students from Ahmedabad.
Addressing the graduates, Peter Harris delivered an inspiring message of confidence and purpose.
“What lies ahead for you—whether it’s with UTS or wherever you take it—the foundation you have got now is to go and be impactful. Be the best version of yourself, trust yourself, and you will be great. This is just the beginning, and we are really excited to be a small part of your journey.”
Echoing that sentiment, Dr. Chandni Kapadia reminded students that the diploma they received symbolised much more than academic accomplishment.
It represented perseverance, character, values and the conscious decision to continue moving forward even when circumstances are imperfect.
As the convocation concluded with a campus visit and a dinner reception, the image of a young boy proudly waving a green flag lingered in the minds of graduates and guests alike—a quiet yet powerful reminder that life’s greatest journeys belong not only to those who lead the train, but also to those who choose to remain part of the journey with courage, hope and unwavering determination.
