Tamil Nadu: AI, Quantum Technologies Will Shape The Future: Vice-President
Across all campuses, 11,684 graduates were eligible for degrees this year under the faculty of engineering and technology: Reports
CHENNAI: Vice-President C.P. Radhakrishnan on Sunday called upon graduating students to use their knowledge, innovation and skills for nation-building, guided by the principle of “Nation First – Rashtra Pratham”.
Addressing the 22nd Convocation of SRM Institute of Science and Technology (SRMIST) at Kattankulathur near Chennai, he said strategic technologies such as AI, quantum technologies, semiconductors, robotics and biotechnology would play a crucial role in shaping future economies and societies. “Research achieves its highest purpose when it serves society,” he said, stressing the need to translate research into practical solutions that improve people’s lives.
He highlighted the expansion of higher education since 2014, noting that India now has more than 1,425 universities, 54,000 colleges and 16,850 standalone institutions. He also highlighted the rise in women’s enrolment in higher education, from 1.57 crore in 2014-15 to 2.24 crore in 2023-24.
He also recalled India’s Covid-19 vaccine assistance to more than 100 countries, saying the country stood for peace, development and the welfare of humanity. The Vice-President presented an honorary degree to R. Velusamy, President, Automotive Business, Mahindra & Mahindra Ltd., and conferred medals and degrees on graduates. He also administered the “Say No to Drugs” pledge.
Tamil Nadu Governor Rajendra Vishwanath Arlekar, SRMIST Chancellor T.R. Paarivendhar and other dignitaries attended the convocation.
Across all campuses, 11,684 graduates were eligible for degrees this year under the faculty of engineering and technology. At the Kattankulathur and Vadapalani campuses, 8,084 degrees were conferred, comprising 7,926 undergraduate and postgraduate graduates and 158 PhD scholars. In addition, 147 rank medallists were honoured for securing First, Second and Third ranks in their respective programmes, celebrating academic excellence across disciplines.