Convocation ceremonies are not merely formal events of academic completion; they are moments that shape the aspirations of young graduates and set the tone for their contribution to society. The 20th Convocation of the Indian Institute of Information Technology (IIIT), Allahabad, stood out for its thematic emphasis on Atmanirbharta (self-reliance) and the call for students to bridge global innovation with national responsibility.
Speeches by eminent leaders highlighted how India has evolved from a country associated with frugal innovation to an emerging deep-tech hub, poised to lead in sectors ranging from space exploration to artificial intelligence.
The Setting
Held at the IIIT-Allahabad campus, the convocation witnessed participation from dignitaries, faculty, students, and proud parents. The atmosphere reflected a combination of festivity and seriousness—garlanded halls, traditional attire mixed with academic robes, and graduates ready to step into a world of responsibility.
A total of 648 degrees were conferred, including Bachelor’s, Master’s, and PhDs. Among the many bright faces, Shikhar Agrawal was awarded the Chairman’s Gold Medal, symbolising excellence in academic pursuit.
Key Highlights of the Convocation
1. Message from AICTE Chairman Prof TG Sitharam
Prof Sitharam delivered a stirring address on India’s technological ascent.
- He cited milestones such as Chandrayaan-3 and Aditya-L1, describing them not as isolated achievements but as “stepping stones to equal footing with the world’s best.”
- He highlighted India’s indigenous defence capabilities and growing investment in research as signs of technological maturity.
- His message to students was clear: global competition is inevitable, but India now stands with confidence on the world stage.
2. Guest of Honour Deepak Ghaisas’ Vision
Deepak Ghaisas, veteran entrepreneur and thought leader, drew attention to the transformative journey of India’s innovation ecosystem.
- From a reputation for frugal solutions, India now boasts over 170,000 startups and more than 100 unicorns.
- He described India as a deep-tech hub in the making, urging graduates to think ambitiously and globally.
- “Innovation is not just about survival anymore,” he said. “It’s about leading markets and solving the world’s grand challenges.”
3. Student Achievement: Shikhar Agrawal
Recognition of individual brilliance added a personal dimension to the convocation. Agrawal’s award symbolised the merging of hard work, mentorship, and institutional excellence. His achievement resonated as a role model moment for peers and juniors alike.
Broader Context: India’s Atmanirbharta Drive
The convocation’s focus on Atmanirbharta reflects larger national priorities.
- Global Supply Chain Shifts: With geopolitical tensions and trade wars disrupting traditional supply chains, India is pushing to strengthen domestic manufacturing and R&D.
- Digital Economy Growth: Initiatives such as Digital India and India Stack are positioning the country as a leader in digital public infrastructure.
- Defence and Space: Indigenous fighter jets, satellites, and lunar missions demonstrate that India is reducing dependency on imports.
- Start-up Ecosystem: The surge in unicorns and startups across fintech, AI, and health tech is proof of self-reliant innovation.
Atmanirbharta is no longer just a slogan—it is a strategic framework for competitiveness in a volatile global economy.
Implications for Graduates
The speeches carried a clear message for students stepping into the professional world:
- Think Global, Act Local
Graduates were urged to compete internationally while anchoring their innovations in solving India’s unique problems. - Be Job Creators, Not Just Job Seekers
With a booming startup culture, students are expected to lead entrepreneurial ventures that can employ others and create sustainable ecosystems. - Ethics and Responsibility
While technology offers boundless opportunities, leaders reminded students that ethical considerations—privacy, sustainability, inclusivity—are equally critical. - Lifelong Learning
In an era of AI and automation, continuous reskilling is no longer optional. Graduates were reminded to keep pace with evolving technologies.
The Role of Institutions Like IIIT-Allahabad
IIIT-Allahabad, known for its excellence in IT and allied fields, plays a critical role in grooming India’s next generation of innovators.
- Strong industry collaborations ensure students gain practical exposure.
- Research initiatives link academic learning with real-world problems.
- Alumni networks across the globe reflect the institute’s growing influence.
Convocations like this remind the public of the institute’s role not just in education but in shaping India’s knowledge economy.
Reactions from Graduates
- Ananya Sharma, B.Tech graduate: “The message of Atmanirbharta inspires us to innovate at home before looking outward.”
- Rohit Yadav, M.Tech graduate: “Hearing leaders cite Chandrayaan and startups together makes us realise we are part of a much bigger story.”
- Parents and families expressed pride, noting how the convocation speeches connected personal milestones with national aspirations.
Expert Commentary
Education experts and policy analysts emphasised that such events play an important role in nation-building.
- Prof Meenakshi Gupta, educationist: “By linking convocation speeches to Atmanirbharta, leaders set a tone of responsibility. Graduates see themselves not just as job aspirants but as contributors to India’s global standing.”
- Industry Analyst Rajat Khanna: “Marrying global ambition with national goals is the right approach. India’s tech graduates are among the most sought after worldwide. Guiding them to channel their skills responsibly ensures long-term benefit.”
Conclusion
The 20th Convocation of IIIT-Allahabad was not merely a ceremonial event; it was a reaffirmation of India’s larger journey towards self-reliance, innovation, and global leadership. By emphasising Atmanirbharta, leaders connected graduates’ personal success with national progress.
For the young minds stepping into the future, the challenge is clear: embrace global opportunities, but never lose sight of the responsibility to uplift India through innovation, research, and ethical entrepreneurship.
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