IIM Ahmedabad’s 61st convocation awarded 629 degrees, felicitated five gold medalists, launched AI school, and reported 100% placements for Class of 2026.
Grand Ceremony at Louis Kahn Plaza
The Indian Institute of Management Ahmedabad (IIM A) marked a milestone with its 61st convocation on Saturday at the iconic Louis Kahn Plaza. In a vibrant celebration of academic achievement, the institute conferred degrees upon 629 graduating students across its prestigious programs. This diverse cohort reflects IIM A’s commitment to excellence in management education, blending rigorous training with real-world impact.
Breakdown of graduates included 20 from the Doctoral Program in Management (PhD), 408 from the flagship two-year Post Graduate Programme in Management (MBA-PGP), 45 from the Post Graduate Programme in Food and Agri-business Management (MBA-FABM), and 156 from the intensive one-year MBA-PGPX for executives. These programs equip leaders for diverse sectors, from agribusiness to global strategy.
Honoring Academic Excellence
Five standout students were felicitated with gold medals, recognizing top performance and embodying IIM A’s high standards. Viraj Modi, Akshit Mittal, and Devavrat Wagle shone in the MBA-PGP, mastering analytics, leadership, and innovation. Jagrati Goyal excelled in MBA-FABM, addressing India’s farm-to-fork challenges with sustainable insights. Harsh Modi topped the MBA-PGPX, demonstrating executive prowess among seasoned peers. These medalists not only aced academics but also led case competitions, internships, and social initiatives, inspiring peers.
Inspirational Leadership Addresses
Chief Guest Chandrika Tandon, IIM A Class of 1975 alumna and global philanthropist, delivered a keynote urging graduates to blend purpose with profit. Tandon, known for her work in music, business, and yoga, shared stories of resilience, emphasizing ethical leadership in turbulent times.
Director Professor Bharat Bhasker echoed this in his address, spotlighting institutional strides. He announced two new Centres of Excellence at IIM A Dubai – focusing on sustainability and digital transformation – and the launch of the Krishnamurthy Tandon School of Artificial Intelligence. This AI school pioneers courses in machine learning, ethics, and business applications, positioning IIM A at the forefront of tech-infused management. Bhasker advised: “In a non-linear world, cultivate resilience and clarity to thrive amid uncertainty.”
100% Placements for Class of 2026
Amid convocation joy, IIM A revealed stellar final placements for the MBA-PGP Class of 2026: 100% across 26 cohorts, defying economic headwinds. Over 150 firms participated, led by consulting giants (McKinsey, BCG), finance leaders (Goldman Sachs, JP Morgan), and tech powerhouses (Google, Microsoft). Students filed 150+ “dream applications,” securing roles with average salaries reflecting premium talent.
This success stems from IIM A’s case-study pedagogy, global exchanges, and industry ties. Recruiters praised the class’s adaptability – honed via simulations and live projects – amid AI disruptions and geopolitical shifts. “IIM A graduates are future-proof leaders,” noted a top firm recruiter.
A Legacy of Leadership
The 61st convocation reaffirms IIM A’s stature as India’s premier B-school, founded in 1961 with Rockefeller support. With alumni steering Fortune 500 firms and startups, these 629 graduates join a network driving India’s $5 trillion economy dream. As Bhasker closed, “Your IIM A journey ends; your impact begins.” From gold medalists to placed pioneers, Class of 2026 is primed to lead.
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