Awards, dreams, speeches and dance were the highlights of Techno India University’s Convocation Ceremony 2023, where 4,500 students received their undergraduate, postgraduate and doctoral degrees in the presence of Infosys founder N.R. Narayana Murthy.
Former Team India captain Sourav Ganguly, former chairman of Tata Sons Ratan Tata, actress and model Sushmita Sen, singer Kavita Krishnamurthy, author Shirshendu Mukhopadhyay and paediatrician Apurba Ghosh were awarded honorary DLitt degrees by the university for contribution in their respective fields of work. Former project director of Agni IV missile Tessy Thomas was also bestowed a DLitt degree for her role in furthering India's mastery of aeronautical systems through her pioneering work with the DRDO.
Delivering the convocation speech, chief quest Narayana Murthy underlined the importance of professionalism and work ethics. “I congratulate the students and their parents, the teachers for their sacrifice and hard work... In the last decade, our country has made incredible financial growth. The educated youth made that possible and scientists and engineers are resources of India. Discipline, knowledge and professional ethics should be practised with a value system. A closed mind is the most dangerous thing in the world and that’s why a professional should constantly be learning…” he said.
Youngsters await their turn to receive their degrees
The event held at Biswa Bangla Convention Centre began with the felicitation of guests and a lamp-lighting ceremony.
Dona Ganguly’s dance troupe Diksha Manjari performed to a series of patriotic songs like Miley Sur Mera Tumhara and Des Mera Rangeela. Madhumanti Maitra anchored the event.
After vice-chancellor Gautam Sengupta and chancellor Dr Gautam Roychowdhury declared the convocation open, the main event began with students taking oath. Dr Roychowdhury, who was also the chief guest, awarded the degrees. Several among the awardees had completed their degrees during the pandemic period.
Narayana Murthy being presented with a dokra Durga idol
After the convocation speech, Narayana Murthy was presented with a dokra Durga idol.
Sourav Ganguly and Sushmita Sen were not present at the event, while Tata sent his regards with a video message. “I am delighted to be here and I wish everyone to reach their fullest potential,” Shirshendu Mukhopadhyay said after receiving DLitt.
Thereafter, university rank holders and gold medallists received their awards with their parents. Teachers handed over degree certificates to the students. “Convocation ceremony is one of the most memorable days in a student’s life. But due to Covid, passouts had missed out on the opportunity the past three years. After a long time, we have received our certificates in front of legends like Narayana Murthy, Kavita Krishnamurti and Shirshendu Mukhopadhyay. This is truly an important day in our life,” said Sagnik Mitra, a passout.
Narayana Murthy does the honours even as an image of Sushmita Sen is seen in the background
“Our institution has stood the test of time, adapting and evolving with the changing landscape of technology and education. I am confident that the graduates from Techno India University will not only excel in their respective fields but also contribute meaningfully to the global discourse on innovation and progress. May their dreams be bold, your pursuits relentless, and your impact profound,” said chancellor Roychowdhury.
Congratulating the students, Meghdut Roychowdhury, executive director and chief innovation officer of Techno India University, encouraged the students: “As you embark on your journey towards a successful career, remember that the path may be challenging but your determination and passion will light the way. Embrace the challenges, for they are the stepping stones to your greatness.”
Duofie time for a graduate and her companion
Several dignitaries such as Dona Ganguly, singer Kavita Krishnamurthy, author Shirshendu Mukhopadhyay and Dr Apurba Ghosh attended the event. Musician L. Subramaniam, Bose Institute director Uday Bandyopadhyay, ISI Kolkata director Sanghamitra Bandyopadhyay, NIT, Durgapur director Prof Arvind Choubey, Hidco chairman Debashis Sen were present along with co-chancellor Manoshi Roychowdhury, pro-vice-chancellor Samiran Chattopadhyay, registrar Mohit Chatterjee among others.
The presence of Major General H. Dharmarajan, GOC HQ Bengal Sub Area, Kolkata, Abhijit Dasgupta, commandant, Coast Guard, RHQ and Commodore P. Sasi Kumar, Naval officer-in-charge West Bengal on the dais made the occasion complete.