IIM Shillong organised the commencement ceremony to welcome the 16th Batch of the two-year full-time Post Graduate Program (PGP 2023-25) and Doctoral Program (2023) yesterday.
This year the programs witnessed the enrolment of 390 students in PGP batch and 17 in the Doctoral Program.
According to a press release from the institute, female participants represent 51.6 per cent, while male participants account for 48.4 per cent. This year, the institute achieved a significant milestone by welcoming the highest-ever number of students from North East India.
“A total of 12 students from the region have enrolled, highlighting the institute’s commitment to promoting diversity and inclusivity. By providing equal opportunities to participants from various backgrounds, the institute aims to nurture future leaders who bring a diverse range of perspectives and experiences to the table,” the statement said.
Gracing the occasion as chief guest, Prof. K K Aggarwal highlighted the challenges and rewards they will encounter beyond the institution. He emphasized the importance of creating a future and seizing the opportunity provided by one of the best IIMs.
Aggarwal emphasized on the value of “collaboration over competition”, recognizing the advantages of diverse perspectives and teamwork. He encouraged students to work together to achieve greater success. He laid stress on practical application of knowledge and experience, cautioning against relying solely on gut feelings.
Aggarwal also called for sustainability and creativity innovation to be fundamental qualities of every graduate. He acknowledged the global consequences of neglecting sustainability and emphasized the need for creative thinking to find solutions to contemporary challenges.
Special Guest, Ranjan Kumar Mohapatra, Executive Director & Head, Indian Oil Institute of Petroleum Management highlighted the “significance of lifelong learning and purpose-driven actions.” He emphasized the value of embracing diversity and leveraging its strength to foster innovation and growth.
Prof. D P Goyal, Director of IIM Shillong acknowledged the challenging selection process that led them to IIM Shillong and emphasized that admission is just the first step in their journey. He urged the students to remain humble, disciplined, and focused throughout their two-year journey at IIM Shillong. He celebrated the institute’s 15-year establishment, its global reputation for excellence, and transparent placement records.