Shillong, April 03: The IIM Shillong, hosted its 15th Annual Convocation on April 3rd, 2024, with 5 Doctoral Scholars conferred PhD degree, whereas 281 students from PGP-2022-24 batch, 47 students from PGPEX batch of 2023-24 and 16 students from PGPWE2022-24batch were conferred with MBA degrees.
Inspired by this mosaic of cultures that thrives in the Northeast, and ethical and sustainable living practiced in the region, IIM Shillong partnered with the Centre of Excellence for Khadi (CoEK) to create a new convocation attire.
The result is body drapes, adorned in Institute hues of white, green, and yellow, reminiscent of the traditional Khasi tribal wrap, the Muka. The attire innovation isn’t just symbols of unity; it is a manifestation of the commitment to celebrate and honour cultural diversity.
In a tribute to local heritage, the IIM Shillong convocation attire is crafted from eri silk by TamulpurAnchalikGramdaan Sangh, the oldest khadi institution in the Northeast, established in 1962. Each scarf, woven with care, embodies the legacy of generations, showcasing the metamorphosis of the silk moth and the artisanal skill behind its transformation.
As graduates don these scarves, they embrace a narrative of perseverance, beauty, and sustainability, becoming ambassadors of Northeastern designs on the global stage.
This initiative not only preserves endangered heritage practices but also uplifts the livelihood of local artisans. As they embark on their journeys, graduates carry a legacy of strength, beauty, and sustainability alongside their degrees.
While delivering the welcome address, the Chairman of the Board of Governors, Shri Shishir Kumar Bajoria, congratulated the students on their achievements and emphasized the importance of skill development in shaping India’s future.
Shri Shishir Kumar Bajoria, Chairman of the Board of Governors at IIM S, quoted Swami Vivekananda’s famous words, “Arise, awake and stop not till the goal is reached.”
He urged the graduating students to take on social responsibility, embrace change, and become the torchbearers of India’s economy. He also encouraged them to guard India’s rich culture and determination in pursuit of their goals.
The event was graced by Shri Narayanan Kumar, Chairman, Group Corporate Board, the Sanmar Group, Chennai and the Honorary Consul General of Greece in Chennai, as the Chief Guest.
While delivering the Convocation Address Shri Narayanan Kumar highlighted that India has been fortunate to have been globally growing, with initiatives such as Digital India contributing to the country’s growth.
While many countries, are grappling with recession and other challenges, India continues to grow and emerge as a global leader. I firmly believe that India is the country of the decade, and he urge the students of IIM Shillong to leverage their education to contribute towards the country’s progress and make a positive impact on society.
Further he mentioned that New India offers tremendous opportunities for Young Indians to pursue dreams and achieve goals and based on their own hard work and abilities. Shri Narayanan congratulated all graduating students and wished them a bright future.
During his address to the gathering, Professor DP Director IIM Shillong, mentioned that IIM Shillong has made significant progress in the year 2023-2024. He highlighted the harmonious blend of internationalization with rich Indian culture that is seen at IIM Shillong.
He further mentioned that IIM Shillong has taken various initiatives this year, from bridging the global perspective to local impact. Prof Goyal mentioned that 22 MoUs has been signed with the Global Management Institutions and B-Schools.
The convocation ceremony concluded with a Pledge by the graduating scholars and students led by respective program chairs, that creates a sense of pride and accomplishment as the students looked forward to making their mark in the corporate world, armed with the skills and knowledge imparted by IIM Shillong.