Mumbai: The Indian Institute of Technology Bombay (IIT-B) on Saturday held the interim session of its 63rd Convocation at the Institute’s convocation hall, where degrees were awarded to students who successfully completed their academic requirements between August 2024 and January 2025.

At this special convocation, 354 degrees were conferred, including 219 PhD degrees (including dual degrees such as MTech/MSc + PhD and Joint PhD of IITB-Monash University). Additionally, 135 degrees were awarded across various other programs, including 36 Executive MBA (E-MBA) degrees and six Master in Development Practice (MDP) degrees under the Centre for Technology Alternatives for Rural Areas (CTARA), which were awarded for the first time.

The interim convocation allows students who have completed their degree requirements to receive their degrees earlier than the formal 63rd convocation, enabling them to pursue career opportunities and further academic endeavours without delay.

Abhishek Singh, Additional Secretary, Union Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology, was the chief guest for the event. The ceremony was presided over by Dr. Sharad Kumar Saraf, chairperson of the board of governors, while the degrees were conferred by IIT Bombay Director Prof. Shireesh Kedare.

Addressing the graduating students, Singh emphasised the role of research and innovation in India’s aspirations to become a global leader in the Deep Tech Revolution.

“Imagine a future where the thesis of 219 PhD scholars is turned into research projects. Do not just earn your degrees, but power startups, shape policies and solve societal challenges. That’s the ecosystem we are building, one where curiosity meets application and innovation drives prosperity,” he said.

He further urged the graduates to engage in problem-solving research, collaborate with industry, embrace risk and failure, and champion ethical and responsible innovation, stating that their role would be crucial in India’s vision of becoming a developed nation by 2047.

Dr. Saraf advised students to apply their knowledge for the benefit of industry and economic growth, highlighting the strong global reputation IITs have built over the years. “IITs and their alumni have created a world-famous brand name, and now it is time for you to take this brand forward,” he said.

Congratulating the students, their families, and faculty members, Kedare said, “IIT Bombay, with its 66-year legacy, continues to evolve as a global leader in education, research and innovation. Our commitment to excellence drives us to expand interdisciplinary fields, foster entrepreneurship and create societal impact. As you step beyond the gates of IIT Bombay, you carry with you not just knowledge but the resilience, curiosity and problem-solving mindset that defines a true engineer, scientist and leader.”

He further encouraged graduates to embrace the challenges ahead with a spirit of innovation and integrity, reinforcing the values that have been instilled in them during their time at IIT-B.