Berhampur: The National Institute of Science and Technology (NIST) University held its first convocation ceremony with splendour here on Tuesday, awarding degrees to 187 students. Of them, 10 received the prestigious Gold Medal and 19 the Silver Medal for their exemplary academic performance.
On the historic occasion, honorary Doctorate degrees were conferred upon distinguished space scientist and Padma Shri Dr Kota Harinarayan for his contribution to science, and eminent Odia vocalist Namita Agrawal for her contributions to literature and culture.
B Pratap Singh, CMD of NALCO, graced the ceremony as Chief Guest, renowned Odissi danseuse and Padma Shri awardee Dr Aruna Mohanty was the Guest of Honour.
Dr Sukanta Kumar Mohapatra, Founder and Chairman of NIST University, inspired the graduates with a stirring address, highlighting their accomplishments on both national and international platforms. He also announced the establishment of a ‘Centre of Excellence’ within the university premises. A formal agreement was signed.
Vice-Chancellor Prof. Dr Priyadarshan Patra delivered the annual academic report, outlining the university’s strides in education, research and innovation.
Among esteemed dignitaries who attended the convocation were Board of Governors members Chikiti MLA Manoranjan Dyan Samantaray, Dr Pratosh Bansal, Dr Anurag Agrawal, Bimal Mishra and Ranjan Jena. Registrar Dr Bishnukar Nayak concluded formal proceedings with a heartfelt vote of thanks.
The smooth conduct of the event was ensured by a dedicated team comprising Dr Manas Ranjan Patra, Prof. Swadhin Mishra, Dr Preeti Ranjan Sahu, Dr Sasmita Padhi, and several other esteemed faculty and staff.
More than 20,000 students from across India and nearby countries have graduated from NIST, which was established in 1996. NIST, having autonomous college status previously, was granted university status in 2024 by the Odisha government by enactment of the NIST University Act.
After getting university status, several global innovation centres (GICs) are being set up in NIST to retain its unique position in the field of education and research.
