- True wisdom comes with age and experience: Chief Guest Rishad Premji
- 530 students graduate at the 13th Convocation of IIT Gandhinagar
- Total 56 students received 57 medals, including 40 gold medals and 17 silver medals for outstanding academic performances and other proficiencies
- Ron Mehta and MR Patel received the prestigious Institute Fellow award
- Choose something you will be passionate about, and that is the only way you will be able to make a difference and have an impact: Sanjiv Puri
NE EDUCATION BUREAU
GANDHINAGAR, JUNE 29
Wipro Limited Executive Chairman Rishad Premji emphasized that while formal education equips students with technical knowledge and professional skills, it doesn’t necessarily prepare them for life’s complexities. “There is no formal school for life, no guide, no navigation for living a better life,” he remarked, noting that true wisdom comes with age and experience.
In his address to the graduating students at the 13th Convocation of the Indian Institute of Technology Gandhinagar on Saturday, Chief Guest Rishad Premji congratulated the graduates on their achievements and acknowledged the institution’s reputation for cutting-edge innovation, development, and curriculum.
Reflecting on his own life, Premji shared three key lessons that have shaped him:
- Non-Negotiables: Identifying and adhering to core values.
- What Truly Matters: Focusing on what is genuinely important in life.
- Simplification: Striving for simplicity to navigate life’s complexities.
He illustrated these points with personal experiences, offering valuable insights and advice to the graduates as they embark on their new journeys.
This year, 56 students received medals, including 40 gold medals and 17 silver medals for excellence in various categories such as academics, outstanding research, innovation, leadership, social service, sports, arts & culture, and so on. During the Award Ceremony, which was held on June 28th, 2024, 42 medalists received their medals. 14 medalists received the medals during the Convocation. And Ron Mehta and M R Patel received the prestigious Institute Fellow Award.
Earlier to the Chief Guest’s address, Sanjiv Puri, Chairman, Board of Governor of IIT Gandhinagar and Chairman and Managing Director, ITC Limited, delivered an inspiring Convocation Address to the graduating students of IIT Gandhinagar. He praised the institute’s research laboratories, innovative culture, and commitment to sustainability, highlighting initiatives like the solar park and sustainable practices. Puri commended IITGN for producing excellent engineers and responsible citizens through unique programs such as community immersions.
He expressed heartfelt gratitude to the faculty and staff for their dedication, making IITGN a source of national pride. To the graduates, Puri acknowledged their sense of fulfillment and nostalgia, advising them to pursue careers that ignite their passion to make a meaningful impact.
Addressing global challenges, Puri discussed geopolitical tensions, climate emergencies, and economic uncertainties, noting India’s growth and opportunities due to sound policies and entrepreneurial potential. He urged graduates to seize these opportunities despite global challenges.
Focusing on sustainability, Puri emphasized the urgency of addressing climate change and extreme weather events. He stressed the importance of reducing fossil fuel usage and transitioning to clean energy, encouraging graduates to contribute solutions and build resilience in a hotter world.
“Choose something you will be passionate about, and that is the only way you will be able to make a difference and have an impact,” advised Puri.
Announcing the total number of degrees and medals awarded to the Class of 2024 at IITGN, Prof Rajat Moona, Director, IIT Gandhinagar, gave a brief overview of the Institute’s activities and achievements during the year. At the 13th Convocation of IIT Gandhinagar, the institute celebrated its largest graduating class with 530 students receiving degrees across various disciplines.
Congratulating all degree recipients and medal winners as well as their parents and family members for all the hard work and patience leading to this success, Prof Rajat Moona said, “In your years at IIT Gandhinagar, you have forged strong friendships and relationships, some of which will last a lifetime. As you advance further in your career, I am certain that you will look back at these years fondly. IIT Gandhinagar has always cherished bonds with its young, dynamic and vibrant alumni base. As IIT Gandhinagar surges ahead in its journey, we stand to gain from the perspectives and experiences of our alumni. I hope you will remain actively engaged with us as you scale great heights in your career. We will continue to take great pride in your success and cheer you on as you move from strength to strength. Wherever you are in the world, you will be an integral part of the IITGN family”
The entire event was also streamed online on IITGN’s YouTube channel.
