Shillong, Nov 3: The University of Science and Technology Meghalaya (USTM) held its 11th convocation ceremony for 1,618 graduates, including 762 undergraduates, 824 postgraduates, and 32 PhD scholars.
A total of 54 gold medals were presented to meritorious achievers- 24 undergraduates, 25 postgraduates, and five special awardees, recognising their exceptional academic performances.
Among the shining achievers, Dikshita Kalita (M.Sc. Zoology) received the Dr. A.P.J. Abdul Kalam Gold Medal Award for Best Postgraduate Student for overall excellence. Sumu Boruah (B.Pharm.) earned the P.A. Sangma Gold Medal Award for Best Undergraduate Student, while Jeremaiah Warbah (B.A. Administration & Governance) received the Chancellor’s Gold Medal Award.
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 engagement.
Delivering the Convocation Address, Padma Bhushan tech trailblazer of India, Dr Kris Gopalakrishnan, co-founder of Infosys, Chairman of the Governing Council, IISc Bengaluru, lauded USTM in his for its progressive vision, saying, “Innovation and entrepreneurship must be inculcated at universities, as they are the driving forces of national progress and self-reliance.” He urged the youth to embrace creativity, ethical values, and a problem-solving mindset to contribute meaningfully to society and the nation.
Meghalaya Deputy Chief Minister Sniawbhalang Dhar inspired the graduates with his message of perseverance.
USTM Chancellor Mahbubul Hoque praised the graduates: “Your magic has attracted the nation’s greatest minds – from Dr Abdul Kalam, Dr Ram Nath Kovind, Chief Justice of India, to the ISRO Chairman, who next?”
A 30-second silence in memory of Assam cultural icon Zubeen Garg was also observed. USTM had conferred upon him an Honorary D.Litt. during its 10th Convocation for his remarkable contributions to art, music, and social harmony.
The ceremony concluded with the graduates’ oath, the signing of the convocation register, and the National Anthem, marking yet another shining chapter in USTM’s journey of excellence.
