Indian Institute of Technology Guwahati hosted the Silver Jubilee Reunion for its first batch of students (Class of 1995 – 1999). This landmark event, organized by the Alumni and External Relations of IIT Guwahati, witnessed over 25 alumni traveling from across the globe to reunite at their alma mater for a three-day event.
The class of 1995 – 1999 holds a special place in the history of the Institute, being the pioneers who were awarded B.Tech. degrees during the Institute’s inaugural convocation in 1999. These alumni began their journey at a make-shift IIT Guwahati complex in the Institute of Engineers Building, witnessing the transition to the current sprawling campus on the northern banks of the Brahmaputra.
The alumni were warmly welcomed by Prof. Devendra Jalihal, Director, IIT Guwahati, at an Open House event held at the Institute. The event was attended by students, faculty, and staff members of IIT Guwahati. During this event, the alumni shared their formative experiences and career journeys, offering valuable insights and inspiration to the current students.
Speaking about hosting the prestigious alumni of IIT Guwahati, Prof. Devendra Jalihal, said, “It is an honor to host our pioneering batch of alumni and celebrate their remarkable achievements and contributions. Their success stories serve as a testament to the strong foundation laid here at IIT Guwahati. The legacy they have built over the past 25 years is truly inspiring and demonstrates the impact of the education and values instilled during their time here. Their accomplishments across various industries and countries underscore the global reach and influence of our institution. As we look to the future, we are excited to continue fostering this spirit of innovation and excellence, building on the foundation they helped establish.”
The three-day reunion featured engaging sessions where alumni and the Institute administration discussed potential contributions to student training, the establishment of state-of-the-art facilities, and the overall development of the institution. Many alumni pledged support for promoting new scientific and technological innovations by funding undergraduate projects and mentoring students.
During the event, Mr. Rajeev Dwivedi, Alumnus, Class of 1999, IIT Guwahati, remarked, “IIT Guwahati was where I first truly understood what it means to be an engineer. The institute offered a wealth of opportunities that greatly contributed to my growth and learning. The guidance and support from the faculty were invaluable. Today, as a Mechanical Engineer and Subject Matter Expert in Automation Robotics at Amazon Robotics, I have been fortunate to make significant contributions in robotics and to integrate my innovations into various products. Reflecting on the profound impact of my education at IIT Guwahati, I am deeply grateful for the personal and professional development it has enabled.”
A highlight of the reunion was the announcement of the Gurudakshina program by Prof. Devendra Jalihal. This initiative encourages alumni and students to give back to their alma mater by pledging a portion of their salary or business profits to the Institute.
The reunion also included a hybrid meeting with the first Director of the institute, Prof. Dhirendranath Buragohain, and other pioneering faculty members like Prof. Gautam Barua, Prof. Meenaxi Borkotoky, and Prof. Anil D. Sahasrabudhe, who joined in person and online to reminisce about the early days of the Institute
Additionally, a student-alumni workshop facilitated the exchange of ideas, knowledge, and networking, followed by a showcase of various student activities on campus. The alumni visited their parent departments, toured the campus, and revisited their old hostels and classrooms in the city, reliving cherished memories from their time at IIT Guwahati.
The Silver Jubilee Reunion was a heartwarming celebration of camaraderie and nostalgia, strengthening the bond between the alumni and their alma mater while paving the way for future collaborations and contributions.
