- India’s T20 icon delivers an inspiring campus address, blending sport, discipline and self-belief
- Learn from seniors, give an ear to all team members and arrive at an informed decision keeping the team’s interest above individual fame: Yadav’s success mantra
- Bachelor of Sports Management launched; Surya Kumar Yadav named brand ambassador of GLS University
- GLS centenary celebrations to begin on February 23, 2026
- Honorary doctorates conferred on Vijay Chauthaiwale and Siddharth Randeria, with moving acceptance speeches
- Over 5,000 students graduate at GLS University’s 9th Convocation Ceremony
R MANICKAVASAGAM
AHMEDABAD, DEC 20
“Believe in yourself and keep pushing your limits — because the sky is never the limit,” said India’s T20 batting icon Surya Kumar Yadav as he opened his keynote address at the 9th Convocation Ceremony of GLS University, delivering a powerful and deeply motivating introduction that set the tone for one of the institution’s most memorable campus events.
Held at the GLS campus near Law Garden, Ellisbridge, the convocation celebrated academic excellence and transition for 5,003 students graduating across undergraduate, postgraduate and doctoral programmes. The ceremony also marked several milestones for the university, including the launch of a new Bachelor of Sports Management programme, the announcement of Surya Kumar Yadav as brand ambassador of GLS University, and the formal unveiling of the university’s centenary celebrations, scheduled to begin on February 23, 2026.
Addressing the graduating Class of 2025, Surya Kumar Yadav spoke candidly about discipline, resilience and the courage to reinvent oneself. He told students, “Success is not just about talent, but about resilience and commitment. You are now stepping into a world that requires leadership, both on and off the field. Let your dedication guide you as you move forward in your professional journeys.”
Reflecting on his own journey, he added, “Every failure teaches you something. What matters is how fearlessly you respond to pressure and how honestly you work on your game — whether that game is cricket or life.” His address drew sustained applause from students and faculty, many of whom described it as one of the most relatable convocation speeches in recent years.
The convocation also saw GLS University formally introduce its Bachelor of Sports Management course, aimed at preparing students for careers in the rapidly expanding sports ecosystem spanning analytics, event management, governance and athlete representation. Announcing Surya Kumar Yadav as the university’s brand ambassador, the leadership highlighted his journey as a reflection of perseverance, innovation and excellence — values GLS seeks to instil in its students.
Speaking at the ceremony, Sudhir Nanavati underlined the importance of adaptability and lifelong learning. “The real world will test you in ways you have not yet imagined, but the ability to learn continuously and face challenges with confidence will be your greatest strength,” he said, adding, “Stay curious, or stay behind. There’s no middle ground.”
Pankaj Patel congratulated the graduates and urged them to think beyond immediate success. “You walk out of this institution not just with knowledge, but with responsibility on your shoulders. Your first job is not your career, and your first mistake is not your legacy,” he said. “Think like a scientist, act like an entrepreneur, and remember, failure is part of the journey to success.”
Chandni Kapadia, in an emotionally resonant address, reminded students that preparedness matters more than certainty. “This is your moment, but it’s just the beginning. Timing isn’t always in your control, but readiness is. And rejection? It’s not failure. It’s life redirecting you to where you truly belong,” she said. “Today, you are not just leaving with a degree; you are leaving with a direction for your life.”
A key highlight of the convocation was the conferral of Honorary Doctorates on Vijay Chauthaiwale and Siddharth Randeria, recognising their contributions to diplomacy, public life and the arts. Accepting the honour, Vijay Chauthaiwale said, “Education shapes not just careers, but conscience. Institutions like GLS play a quiet yet powerful role in nation-building by nurturing informed and responsible citizens.”
Siddharth Randeria, addressing the students with his trademark warmth, remarked, “Theatre and education have one thing in common — they both teach you to observe life deeply. I hope each of you remains curious, creative and compassionate, no matter where your journey takes you.”
Academic excellence was also celebrated during the ceremony, with 40 meritorious students receiving Gold and Silver Medals, 37 doctoral scholars being awarded PhD degrees, and 40 students honoured with Best Student Awards across disciplines including Law, Management, Commerce, IT, Computer Applications and Design.
As the convocation drew to a close, optimism filled the campus, with graduates, families and faculty reflecting on both achievement and aspiration. In closing remarks, Sudhir Nanavati summed up the spirit of the day: “GLS University has given you wings; now it’s up to you to fly and make a difference in the world.”
Blending inspiration from sport, scholarship and service, the 9th Convocation Ceremony stood out as a defining campus moment — not just celebrating the Class of 2025, but also setting the stage for GLS University’s journey into its centenary year.
