Breaking Boundaries; NIT Rourkela Celebrates 1988 Graduates with Record Female Representation

In a momentous celebration, the National Institute of Technology, Rourkela (NIT Rourkela) marked its 21st Convocation on January 20, 2024, awarding a total of 1,988 degrees, including several Dual Degrees. Notably, the female-to-male ratio at the institute has soared to 1:4, with women comprising over 20% of the graduating class.

This year witnessed a remarkable rise in the number of female graduates across various programmes, with 457 women completing their academic journey. The Convocation dress code, showcasing Odisha's rich culture through Sambalpuri designs, further highlighted NIT Rourkela's commitment to promoting regional art and skill.

The Chief Guest, Polavarapu Mallikharjuna Prasad, Chairman and Managing Director of Coal India Limited, delivered an inspiring Convocation Address. “As our great Nation is emerging as one of the fastest growing economies in the world, you (Graduands) are living in exciting times that offers diversified opportunities for professional growth. You are living in the times of information and communication explosion, you are living in the times of rapid technological advancements, you are living in the times of globalization and digitalisation, you are living in the times of skill development and you are living in times of expanding business opportunities”. He, further, urged the graduands to seize the exciting opportunities in India's rapidly growing economy, emphasising the nation's role as a global growth engine.

Under the visionary leadership of Professor K Umamaheshwar Rao, Director of NIT Rourkela, the institute achieved significant milestones. Aligning with NEP 2020, the institute empowered students for successful careers in both industry and academia. NIT Rourkela stands at the forefront, ranking 1st based on Transparent Ranking 2023 and in QS World University Sustainability Ranking among NITs.

Professor Rao highlighted the institute's achievements in sponsored research projects, patents, and faculty recognition. NIT Rourkela's commitment to diversity and student well-being was emphasised, showcasing the nurturing of more than 50 startups at FTBI, with a focus on emotional and psychological support through Institute counselling services.

Delivering the Director’s Report, Professor K Umamaheshwar Rao, Director, NIT Rourkela, said, "My dear graduates, the time has come for you to pay back to the country that has given you what you are going to get. Our commitment of dedicated service to the nation and humanity is reflected through the contributions of the alumni in various nation building projects and are also visible at the international levels."

The Gold medal winners, Branch Topper medalists, and Endowment Awardees were honoured, showcasing academic excellence and research achievements. Eight students received the prestigious Institute Gold Medal, and Distinguished Alumnus Awards were presented to four outstanding alumni across academia, industry, and management.

As NIT Rourkela's Convocation continues to receive accolades from prominent figures and the local community, the institute stands as a beacon of excellence, shaping the future of India's engineering landscape.