The First Annual Convocation of Indian Institute of Management- Raipur, was held at its Sejabahar Campus on 1st May, 2012 amidst much anticipation, excitement, joy, and pride. Decked in their graduation robes, the 1st batch of new, enthusiastic managers listened patiently to the words of wisdom from the some of the most respected names of the country- Shri Nandan Nilekani who was the Chief Guest for the occasion and Shri Hari S. Bharita-Chairman, Board of Governors, Indian Institute of Management, Raipur.
The Convocation began with traditional lighting of the lamp and with an invocation to the Goddess of Learning and Knowledge- Goddess Saraswati. In such a solemn environment the founder and current Director of the Institute- Prof. B.S.Sahay rendered his first Director’s Report. In his report he emphasized on the philosophy of the Institute of nurturing and developing the best of managerial talent, with aim of contributing ethically to the growth and development of the nation, organization and all its stakeholders. Prof. Sahay highlighted the Institute’s continuous endeavor to promote excellence in academics, research, executive education, international linkages and maintaining strong industry interface. The director announced starting of Doctoral Programmes at the Institute which in accordance with the aim of the Institute will produce high level of research. The Post Graduate Programme in Management for Working Executives was also declared to have started.
Updates on placement by the Director was much awaited by the audience. He informed the audience that IIM Raipur received very encouraging response from recruiters that are market leaders in their segments. With a hundred percent recruitment, the average compensation package was around 12.94 lakhs per annum; with a minimum and maximum salary of Rs. 8 lakhs and Rs.23 lakhs per annum respectively.
Prof. Sahay was all praises for the graduating pioneer batch whom he urged to, “set goals on becoming creators of jobs and harnessing natural resources and generating assets and contributing to the progress of India.” Thinking and aiming for the biggest and best, working for the development of the nation and society, for becoming a leader were values stressed upon.
Addressing the audience, students and the Chief guest, Shri Hari S. Bhartia, Chairman, Board of Governors, Indian Institute of Management, Raipur applauded the cooperation from the Central Government, the State Government, Ministry of HRD, students, faculty members, Board of Governors in setting a new standard in management education. In keeping with the foundation principle of IIM Raipur he asked the students to be step into the world with a commitment to use the knowledge they have acquired at the Institute and transform the society. With anecdotes from his personal experience he shared with the students some tips for a rewarding personal and professional life. For example, he illustrated the importance of being forthright in all one’s relations as it saves time, serves as an effective motivator and also serves as a powerful tool of communication.
Amidst between thunderous applause from students and their beaming parents, diplomas were awarded by Shri Hari S. Bhartia to the 66 students of the passing out batch. Four Gold medals for outstanding performance were given by the Chief Guest Shri Nandan Nilekani adding to the excitement of the students.
Shri Nandan Nilekani between much accolade, in his Convocation Address most eloquently carved out the special importance that the first convocation holds for the Institute. He pressed for high quality management education that meets the unique challenges of India and helps “usher in a brighter future for every Indian.” Emphasizing on the role and importance of identity for every Indian he believed that the most important task is of providing digital infrastructure that gives Indians an access to all facilities as well as provide a forum to communicate. In the end he asked the students to form an identity of their own in the rapid changing world.
The chief philosophy of IIM Raipur was reflected in the address of the Chief Guest and the Chairman who emphasized on the advantages of highest quality management education to percolate the grass root levels in a way conducive to the regional, national and societal growth and development.
The evening ended with the National Anthem followed by a sumptuous dinner.
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