Pre-Convocation Academic Conclave

Inspiring Excellence through Honoris Causa Recipients
Objectives of the Practice:

The Pre-Convocation Academic Conclave at ITM University, Gwalior, aims to inspire students by introducing them to eminent figures who have been awarded the prestigious honoris causa degrees. These distinguished personalities serve as real-world role models who have demonstrated excellence, resilience, and leadership in various fields such as science, arts, business, sports, and social activism. ITM University, Gwalior further improvised this unique event by arranging talks of these recipients in an event titled - Pre-Convocation Academic Conclave. The primary objective is to provide students, via their speeches in the morning sessions, with broader perspectives beyond academic knowledge, teaching them that holistic success includes overcoming challenges, pursuing passions, and contributing meaningfully to society. This practice encourages students to embrace values such as perseverance, integrity, and innovation, ultimately motivating them to strive for excellence in their personal and professional lives. Additionally, the event seeks to help students understand that success is not merely academic but encompasses personal growth and a commitment to societal impact.

The Context:

In the context of higher education, particularly at ITM University, there was a recognized need to bridge the gap between classroom learning and its application in real-world scenarios. The challenge was not just how to excel academically but how to inspire students to understand the broader definition of success—one that includes both personal growth and professional achievements. To address this, the university conceived the Pre-Convocation Academic Conclave, a unique platform where successful personalities from various industries share their life journeys with the students. These individuals, who have received the honoris causa degree from ITM University, provide valuable insights into overcoming challenges and demonstrating resilience in achieving their goals. Personalities such as Dr. Rajagopala Chidambaram (nuclear scientist), Ustad Zakir Hussain (tabla maestro), and Smt. P. T. Usha (legendary athlete) have been part of this initiative. The logistical challenge of coordinating the schedules of such high-profile individuals, coupled with the need to ensure that their messages resonate with a diverse student body, was addressed by meticulous planning and by aligning the content with the university’s mission of holistic development.

The Practice:

The Pre-Convocation Academic Conclave is an annual event held before ITM University’s convocation ceremony. The event serves as a platform for honoris causa recipients to share their personal and professional experiences with graduating students. Over the years, ITM University has hosted prominent figures such as:

2019:
  • Padma Vibhushan Dr. Rajagopala Chidambaram – Renowned Nuclear Scientist.
  • Padma Shri Smt. P. T. Usha – Outstanding & Enduring Athlete.
  • Dr. Vandana Shiva – Environmental Activist, Eco-feminist, Speaker, and Author.
  • Shri Martin Macwan – Activist on Social Equality and Human Rights.
2021:
  • Shri Ranjitsinh Disale – Teacher, Winner of Global Teacher Award.
  • Vidushi Ashwini Bhide Deshpande – Hindustani Classical Music Vocalist.
2022:
  • Shri Vishal Bhardwaj – Indian Film Director, Screenwriter, Producer, and Music Composer.
  • Padma Vibhushan Dr. Prabha Atre – Indian Classical Vocalist/Musicologist.
  • Padma Bhushan Ustad Zakir Hussain – Legendary Tabla Player, Composer, Percussionist, Music Producer.
  • Padma Shri Anju Bobby George – Athlete.
  • Padma Bhushan Ghulam Mohammed Sheikh – Eminent Painter.
  • Padma Bhushan Dr. Vijay P. Bhatkar – Computer Scientist, Architect of India’s Supercomputer PARAM.
  • Dr. Geetanjali Shree – Author, International Booker Prize Winner.
2023:
  • Padma Shri Shri Raghu Rai – Photographer and Photojournalist.
  • Padma Shri Dr. Pradeep Chowbey – World-Renowned Pioneering Laparoscopic Surgeon.
  • Mrs. Neerja Chowdhury – Journalist, Political Commentator, Editor, and Author.
  • Prof. Latika Katt – Eminent Sculptor.
  • Padma Shri Shri Manoj Bajpayee – Actor - Motion Pictures.
  • Shri Sonam Wangchuk – Engineer, Innovator, Education Reformist, Ramon Magsaysay Awardee.

These dignitaries, representing various fields such as science, arts, social activism, sports, and media, have contributed significantly to inspiring students through their life stories and professional journeys during the Pre-Convocation Academic Conclave at ITM University.

Its Role:

The Pre-Convocation Academic Conclave has consistently achieved its objectives of inspiring students and bridging the gap between academic learning and real-world success. Each year, student participation has been high, and feedback has been overwhelmingly positive. Many students report feeling motivated and inspired by the personal stories shared by honoris causa recipients like Padma Bhushan Ustad Zakir Hussain, Padma Vibhushan Dr. Rajagopala Chidambaram, and Padma Vibhushan Dr. Prabha Atre – Indian Classical Vocalist/Musicologist.

These sessions have helped students connect their academic knowledge with the real-world challenges they are likely to face in their careers. Graduates frequently remark that the conclave served as a source of inspiration, providing them with insights that helped ease their transition from academic life to their professional careers. The event has also contributed to enhancing the university’s reputation as a forward-thinking institution that values both academic excellence and personal development. The success of the conclave has garnered attention from other educational institutions as a model for student motivation and holistic growth.

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