Guwahati: The 11th Convocation of the University of Science and Technology Meghalaya (USTM) was held on Monday with academic splendour and celebration, graced by Padma Bhushan Dr. Senapathy Kris Gopalakrishnan, Co-founder of Infosys and Chairman of the Governing Council at the Indian Institute of Science, Bengaluru.

A pioneering figure in India’s IT revolution, Dr. Gopalakrishnan attended as Chief Guest and delivered the Convocation Address, urging universities to cultivate innovation and entrepreneurship among students. “Innovation and entrepreneurship must be inculcated at universities, as they are the driving forces of national progress and self-reliance,” he said, encouraging the youth to think creatively and uphold ethical values while addressing real-world challenges.

The ceremony was attended by S. Dhar, Deputy Chief Minister of Meghalaya, along with several Vice Chancellors from reputed universities across India.

This year, USTM conferred degrees on 1,618 graduates, including 762 undergraduates, 824 postgraduates, and 32 PhD scholars. A total of 54 gold medals were presented to meritorious students—24 undergraduate, 25 postgraduate, and 5 special awardees—for outstanding academic achievements.

The event began with an academic procession from Gyan Circle to the packed Central Auditorium. Chancellor Mahbubul Hoque formally declared the convocation open, while Vice Chancellor Prof. G.D. Sharma presented the University Report, highlighting USTM’s growth, innovation, and community engagement.

The gathering paid homage to late Dr. Zubeen Garg, who was posthumously remembered for his cultural and humanitarian legacy. USTM had honoured him with an Honorary D.Litt. at its 10th Convocation. A 30-second silence was observed in his memory.

Among the top awardees, Dikshita Kalita (M.Sc. Zoology) received the Dr. A.P.J. Abdul Kalam Gold Medal for Best Postgraduate Student; Sumu Boruah (B.Pharm.) was honoured with the P.A. Sangma Gold Medal for Best Undergraduate Student; and Jeremaiah Warbah (B.A. Administration & Governance) received the Chancellor’s Gold Medal.

The newly instituted Zubeen Garg Memorial Gold Medal was awarded to Sabrina Alam (B.Sc. Biotechnology) for excellence in academics, co-curricular activities, and community service.

Addressing the graduates, Deputy Chief Minister Sniawbhalang Dhar encouraged them to persevere with passion and resilience.

In his Presidential Address, Chancellor Mahbubul Hoque congratulated the graduates, remarking, “Your magic has attracted the nation’s greatest minds — from Dr. Abdul Kalam, Dr. Ram Nath Kovind, the Chief Justice of India, to the ISRO Chairman. Who next?”

The convocation concluded with the Graduates’ Oath, the signing of the Convocation Register, and the National Anthem — marking another proud milestone in USTM’s pursuit of academic excellence and societal transformation.

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