On August 10, 2024, the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Delhi held its 55th annual convocation, marking a significant milestone in its history with 2,656 students graduating. This year’s ceremony highlighted notable achievements and milestones for the institute, including a record number of PhD graduates and the introduction of new academic programs.
Key Highlights of the Convocation:
- Graduates: The convocation saw 2,656 students receive their degrees, with 25% of them being women. This year included 481 PhD graduates, reflecting a 35% increase from the previous year and marking the highest number of PhD graduates in the institute’s history. Notably, 42% of these PhD graduates were women.
- Youngest and Oldest Graduates: B.Tech degree awardee Kaveesh Kumar, aged under 20, was the youngest graduate, while 63-year-old Shri Sunil Gulati, who earned his PhD in Management Studies, was the oldest.
- New Programs: This year marked the introduction of the institute’s first graduates in several new programs:
- Undergraduate Programs: B.Tech. in Materials Engineering and B.Tech. in Engineering and Computational Mechanics.
- Postgraduate Programs: M.Tech. in Machine Intelligence and Data Science, M.Tech. in Biomolecular and Bioprocess Engineering, M.S.(R) in Transportation Safety and Injury Prevention, and M.S.(R) in Automotive Research and Tribology.
- International Students: A total of 28 international students received their degrees, including students from Sudan, Ethiopia, Tanzania, Uganda, Bangladesh, Burkina Faso, the USA, and Venezuela.
Notable Addresses:
- Chief Guest: Hari S. Bhartia, Founder and Co-Chairman of Jubilant Bhartia Group and IIT Delhi alumnus (B.Tech. Chemical Engineering, 1979), emphasized the evolving landscape of entrepreneurship and innovation in India. He encouraged graduates to embrace entrepreneurship, innovation, and adaptability, and to view uncertainties as opportunities.
- Chairperson of the Board of Governors: Harish Salve highlighted the significant role IIT Delhi graduates play in shaping the future of mankind and the need for technology-driven growth. He underscored the privilege and responsibility of being among the top 1% of aspirants who make it to IIT Delhi and urged graduates to lead technological advancements to address societal challenges.
- Director of IIT Delhi: Prof. Rangan Banerjee advised graduates to face real-world challenges with the skills and knowledge acquired during their time at IIT Delhi. He encouraged them to approach new situations with humility, a willingness to learn, and a collaborative spirit.
The 55th convocation of IIT Delhi celebrated the academic excellence and achievements of its students while setting a forward-looking agenda for future technological advancements and societal contributions.
