Shiv Nadar University Chennai hosts first convocation; confers degrees to 404 graduates across disciplines
Renuka Ramnath, founder and CEO of Multiples Asset Management Ltd., Mumbai, graced the occasion as the chief guest and delivered the convocation address. She was joined by Shikhar Malhotra, trustee, Shiv Nadar Foundation; R Srinivasan, chancellor, Shiv Nadar University Chennai; and Dr Sriman Kumar Bhattacharya, vice-chancellor. The ceremony was also attended by members of the University's Governing Council, distinguished faculty, proud families, and esteemed guests from academia and industry.
The proceedings began with a ceremonial academic procession and invocation, followed by the formal declaration of the Convocation by Chancellor R Srinivasan. Degrees were conferred across undergraduate and postgraduate programmes in engineering, commerce, and economics.
The graduating batch included:
Addressing the Class of 2025, Malhotra said: "This isn't just a graduation — it's a moment of creation. The Class of 2025 didn't just study here; they built something extraordinary from the ground up. As the very first graduating class, they have shaped the spirit, culture, and direction of Shiv Nadar University Chennai in ways that will echo for decades. They placed their trust in a new institution and, in doing so, became the architects of its legacy. Today, they don't just leave with degrees — they leave as pioneers, changemakers, and ambassadors of the Shiv Nadar vision."
Ramnath shared her own story of trailblazing leadership and said:
"Success does not come from joining a big name — it comes from having the courage to think originally and act fearlessly. When I chose to pioneer private capital investment in India, there were doubts and whispers that I was stepping back in my career. But I believed in the opportunity, even when it was invisible to others. Today, private capital flows into India have grown from a few hundred million dollars to over $60 billion annually. That's the power of conviction. My message to every graduate is this: question assumptions, don't be afraid of failure, and define success on your own terms. Above all, stay balanced, stay grounded, and never forget to lift others as you rise."
R Srinivasan added: "This convocation is not only a celebration of academic achievement but a reaffirmation of our belief that education is the most powerful force for transformation. The graduates here today will carry forward the legacy of excellence envisioned by Shiv Nadar and shape a future where knowledge, innovation, and ethics lead the way."
Dr Bhattacharya lauded the graduates for their resilience, particularly in navigating the challenges of a post-pandemic world. He reiterated the university's commitment to research-led education, interdisciplinary learning, and preparing global-ready professionals.
The ceremony also recognised academic excellence and leadership, with gold and silver medals awarded to outstanding students. The event concluded on an emotional note with the symbolic hat toss, as graduates pledged to uphold the values of their alma mater and contribute meaningfully to society as professionals, changemakers, and responsible citizens.
The event witnessed participation from nearly 1,200 attendees, marking the culmination of years of academic pursuit and reaffirming the University's mission to empower the next generation of innovators, ethical leaders, and changemakers.
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