India is not a market; it is a mission: JSW Chairman at Ahmedabad University Commencement Ceremony

Ahmedabad University’s 16th Annual Convocation celebrated the achievements of the graduating Class of 2026, while simultaneously reflecting on the role universities must play in shaping citizens capable of responding to an increasingly complex world. Marking a significant milestone in the students’ journey who now step forward as scholars, innovators, entrepreneurs, researchers, and changemakers, Ahmedabad University conferred 923 degrees across the Amrut Mody School of Management​​​​​​, the School of Arts and Sciences​​​​​​, and the School of Engineering and Applied Science​​​​​​.

Several students were recognised nationally and internationally for achievements in engineering innovation, scientific research, and academic excellence, including top rankings at a design competition at IIT Jammu, a top-five finish in the SAE GO-Kart National Competition, a research presentation at the European Geosciences Union General Assembly in Vienna, and recognition from the Gravity Research Foundation, among others.

The graduating class includes 669 undergraduate, 241 masters, and 13 doctoral graduates. Five students received gold medals in recognition of academic excellence: Khevan Thanki, Aadi Anthony, Richa Kotwal, Devanshee Kansara, and Moksh Shah, who also delivered the valedictorian address.

Delivering the Convocation Address, Mr Sajjan Jindal, Chairman of the JSW Group, urged the graduating class to approach the future with conviction, courage, and a commitment to nation-building. Reflecting on India’s economic trajectory and the scale of opportunity before young graduates, he said, “India is not a market; it is a mission. Today is the most consequential moment in India’s modern history. We are one of the fastest-growing large economies in the world, with the largest population. India’s GDP is roughly one-fifth that of China’s, despite a population nearly as large. Think about what that gap means. The scale of what needs to be built. For me, it is an opportunity for the Class of 2026 to help bridge that gap between India and China.”

Framing his address around the word “BUILD”, Mr Jindal called upon students to “Build with boldness. Uphold integrity. India first. Lead through difficulty. Design for legacy.” He emphasised that education must evolve alongside the changing world and noted that the University represents that spirit of reimagined learning. “You leave here not merely with a degree, but with a way of thinking, with intellectual curiosity, and with the confidence to stand at the intersection of tradition and innovation,” he said.

Congratulating the graduating class, Sanjay Lalbhai, Chancellor and Chairman of the Board of Governors, reflected on the changing technological landscape shaping the future of work and society. He reflected on how the convergence of technologies such as artificial intelligence is fundamentally reshaping the professional landscape and emphasised that this new era demands graduates who can combine technological understanding with ethical inquiry, critical thinking, and reflective leadership. “As you leave Ahmedabad University, remember that while these technologies may transform the world, it is ultimately your vision, your judgement, and your values that must guide their direction,” he added.

Offering words of guidance to the graduating class as they prepared to step into the world beyond the University, Pankaj Chandra​​​​​​, Vice Chancellor and Chairman of the Board of Management, said,” At Ahmedabad University, you entered a safe space where you could experiment, fail, and still remain secure. It was through that experimentation and moments of uncertainty and slippage that you learned and grew. You have received some of the finest education possible in our country, and that prepares you well for the future. You leave with the skills, perspectives, and adaptability needed to navigate the many challenges that will come your way with patience and resilience. You are the hope of this nation.”

This year’s graduating cohort represents diverse aspirations and achievements, from groundbreaking research projects and entrepreneurial ventures to social impact initiatives, artistic excellence, and international collaborations. Graduates have secured fully funded doctoral fellowships and admissions at globally renowned institutions. They are pursuing impactful academic, research, and professional pathways across sectors, with placements and research opportunities at leading organisations in technology, analytics, consulting, engineering, finance, design, and emerging AI-driven industries.

Over the past year, Ahmedabad University expanded its academic and research landscape through new programmes, research initiatives, and global collaborations reflecting the evolving nature of higher education. Key developments included the establishment of the Bloomberg Lab​​​​​​, the student-managed Tinkerers’ Lab​​​​​​, and the Institute of Manufacturing and Economy​​​​​​, strengthening the University’s focus on experiential learning, innovation, entrepreneurship, and interdisciplinary research. Faculty research continued to receive national and international recognition, making the 16th Annual Convocation not only a celebration of achievement, but also a reflection on the future universities must help shape the future of education.