IIT Madras DAA and Inaugural YAAA 2023: Celebrating Exceptional Achievements

IIT Madras DAA and Inaugural YAAA 2023: Celebrating Exceptional Achievements
Jan 11, 2024

IIT Madras DAA and Inaugural YAAA 2023: Celebrating Exceptional Achievements

Joyful vibes filled the air as IIT Madras rolled out the red carpet to honor several of its distinguished alumni at a memorable awards ceremony on December 15th, 2023. The audience buzzed with positivity and pride at the Central Lecture Theatre (CLT), as the institute's trailblazing alumni took center stage one by one to be recognized for their remarkable achievements, since passing through the institute's storied halls.

Professor Mahesh Panchagnula, Dean of Alumni and Corporate Relations, set the tone for the ceremony with a warm welcome address. He emphasized the significance of the awards, recognizing them as a testament to the collective expectations that IITM alumni consistently surpass. He highlighted the remarkable achievement of the awardees, who represent only a small fraction of the 56,000-strong alumni base, each of whom had excelled in their own way to gain admission to the institute.
Professor V. Kamakoti, Director of IITM, took the stage next, offering a glimpse into the institute's exciting present and future. He spoke about IITM's new motto, "IITM for All," which underscores its commitment to social impact and outreach programs. He highlighted initiatives like the BS in Data Science and Programming, designed to cater to students from diverse backgrounds, and the establishment of the first overseas IITM campus in Zanzibar, Tanzania. Professor Kamakoti also touched upon IITM's foray into medical technology and data science, showcasing the institute's dynamism and adaptability, in keeping with the current trends and market demands.

From pioneers in technology and business to exemplary academicians, researchers, and even finance leaders making an impact on the world, the breadth of accomplishments shone a spotlight on IIT Madras' role as an incubator of talent. Each of the Awardees had their moment to shine, humbly taking credit while paying tribute to their professors, lifelong friends, family, and foundational opportunities during their time on campus that put them on the path to success.

The Alumni reminisced on precious memories they held onto for years. Laughter erupted frequently in all corners as they re-lived amusing stories from their hostel days. Meanwhile, proud family members who witnessed the fruitful journeys firsthand from the stands allowed happy tears to well up in their eyes.

At IIT Madras, the alumni are the institute's living legacy. On the beautiful morning of December 15th, 2023, their collective journey came full circle back to where it all started - but not before leaving their distinguished mark on the nation and the world. As one of the Distinguished Alumni, Karthik Sharma, remarked during his acceptance speech, "IITM gave me purpose and direction at a time I needed it most in my life."

Watch the event video here

Article by: Vishnu Chetan, B.Tech, Civil Engineering




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