Dr. G. Viswanathan, Chancellor of Vellore Institute of Technology (VIT), urged a renewed focus on education as a cornerstone for India’s transformation into a developed nation by 2047 during the university’s 40th Convocation Ceremony on Saturday. Supreme Court Justice R. Mahadevan, the chief guest, conferred degrees to 8,310 undergraduates, 2,802 postgraduates, and 451 doctoral graduates, while 68 students received gold medals for excellence and 203 were recognized for top rankings.
Tamil Nadu Police Academy Director DGP Sandeep Rai Rathore received a Ph.D. in Disaster Management. The ceremony also included the inauguration of student hostels named after Dr. A.P.J. Abdul Kalam and Jagadish Chandra Bose, reflecting VIT’s commitment to providing holistic development for students. Times of India CEO Sivakumar Sundaram attended as guest of honor.
Dr. Viswanathan highlighted India’s low education spending—currently 3% of GDP versus the recommended 6%—and stressed the need for expanded infrastructure to achieve a 50% Gross Enrollment Ratio. He urged students to tackle corruption and black money, positioning education as both a personal and national growth driver. Justice Mahadevan lauded VIT’s use of technology and ethical education, encouraging students to combine knowledge with integrity to contribute meaningfully to India’s progress.
