Impossible Is Not in a Leader’s Dictionary”: Meghalaya Deputy CM Ignites USTM 11th Convocation with Passionate Words
9th Mile, Khanapara, Ri-Bhoi – Monday, November 3, 2025: The 11th Convocation of the University of Science and Technology Meghalaya (USTM) were held with grandeur and academic distinction, marked by the august presence of the icon of modern technology Padma Bhushan Dr. Senapathy Kris Gopalakrishnan, Co-founder of Infosys and Chairman of the Governing Council, Indian Institute of Science, Bangalore. A visionary technocrat, entrepreneur, and changemaker who has been instrumental in shaping India’s global IT leadership, Dr Gopalakrishnan graced the occasion as the Chief Guest and Convocation Speaker, delivering an inspiring address to the graduating students.
The ceremony also witnessed the esteemed presence of Shri S. Dhar, Hon’ble Deputy Chief Minister of Meghalaya, along with an impressive assembly of several Vice Chancellors from reputed universities across the country.
The 11th convocation celebrated a proud academic milestone with its 11th Convocation Ceremony, conferring degrees upon 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 5 special awardees, recognising their exceptional academic performances.
The grand academic procession commenced from Gyan Circle and entered the packed Central Auditorium, setting a tone of pride and festivity. Following the National Anthem, Hon’ble Chancellor Shri Mahbubul Hoque declared the convocation open, while Vice Chancellor Prof G.D. Sharma presented the University Report, highlighting USTM’s continued growth, innovation, and societal impact. In a moving tribute, the University remembered late Dr. Zubeen Garg, the beloved cultural icon who passed away on September 19, 2025. USTM had conferred upon him an Honorary D.Litt. during its 10th Convocation for his remarkable contributions to art, music, and social harmony. The gathering observed a 30-second silence in his memory.
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.
Chief Guest Shri Sniawbhalang Dhar, Deputy Chief Minister of Meghalaya, inspired the graduates with his message of perseverance.
In his Presidential Address, Hon’ble Chancellor Shri 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?” 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.;