At the 6th Convocation Ceremony of St. Xavier’s University, Kolkata, Dr. G. Viswanathan, Founder and Chancellor of Vellore Institute of Technology (VIT), was conferred with the prestigious Doctor of Literature (D.Litt., Honoris Causa). He received the honor in appreciation of his exceptional contributions to leadership, education, public service, and humanitarian endeavors.

The convocation ceremony, held at the Biswa Bangla Convention Centre, New Town, was presided over by Hon’ble Chancellor Rev. Dr. James Arjen Tete, S.J & Vice-Chancellor Rev Dr. John Felix Raj. The event saw the presence of academicians, dignitaries, students, and esteemed guests.

The Convocation Address was delivered by Mr. Justice I. P. Mukherji, Chief Justice of the High Court of Meghalaya.

Dr. Viswanathan is an eminent educationist and visionary leader and has played a pivotal role in transforming higher education in India. This recognition marks the first time an Indian university has conferred an honorary doctorate upon him. Previously, he was honored with an honorary doctorate by West Virginia University, USA, in 2009, and by the State University of New York, Binghamton University, USA, in 2024.

Dr. Viswanathan recalled his long association with Bengal and expressed his gratitude to St. Xavier’s University for bestowing the Honoris Causa upon him. He underlined how crucial high-quality research and education are to determining the country’s future. He restated his dedication to promoting both societal advancement and academic excellence. He also underlined how crucial it is for the Gross Enrollment Ratio (GER) to increase to promote better economic development.

Prominent dignitaries from VIT, Vice-Presidents Mr. Sankar Viswanathan & Dr. Sekar Viswanathan, Vice-Chancellor – Dr. Kanchana Bhaaskaran, Pro-Vice Chancellor Dr. Partha Sharathi Mallick, Director -Alumni Affairs Dr. Elizabeth Rufus, Fr. Dominic Gomes, Vicar General Archdiocese of Calcutta, Fr. Malay Dcosta, Financial Administrator, Archdiocese of Calcutta, Fr. Jayraj Veluswamy, SJ, Rector St. Xavier’s College Calcutta were present during this historic occasion.

The Chancellor made a special announcement, stating that starting the following year, VIT will award a gold medal to the top graduating students in both undergraduate and graduate programs.

Priyanka Dutta