667 awarded degrees at PEC in Chandigarh

Punjab Engineering College (Deemed to be University) — the first academic institution established in the City Beautiful in 1953 — celebrated its 55th annual convocation with Punjab Governor and UT Administrator Gulab Chand Kataria attending the event as the chief guest.

A total of 683 BTech, 56 MTech and 40 PhD degrees were conferred on students during the convocation — 667 in person and 112 in absentia.

Addressing the students, Kataria lauded the college for its glorious journey spanning over a century, marked by resilience, excellence and remarkable contributions to the field of engineering and technology. Congratulating all degree recipients, their parents and faculty members, he emphasised the role of education in character building and nation development.

Kataria remarked that engineers graduating from the institution would play a vital role in advancing national initiatives such as Make in India, Digital India and Viksit Bharat 2047. “Knowledge is our greatest wealth. It is our duty to use it for the welfare of the nation and society. To be born in India is a blessing, but to work for India is an even greater honour,” said Kataria.

He congratulated Bhavtegh Singh Gill, who secured three gold medals and one silver medal at the 67th National Shooting (Skeet Men) Championship 2024, and Dr Shimi SL for receiving the Prestigious National Teachers Award 2024 by the President of India. He also applauded Dr Alakesh Manna, Dr Kamal Kumar and Dr Simranjit Singh for their inclusion in the Top 2 percent of World Scientists List.

Kataria presented meritorious students with gold medals and released the Convocation Souvenir 2025, which was received by Prof Rajesh Kumar Bhatia, Director, PEC. In his concluding message, he inspired the young graduates to face challenges with courage, pursue lifelong learning and contribute meaningfully to India’s journey towards progress and prosperity.

Doctor of Science (Honoris Causa) was conferred on Ravindra Kumar Tyagi (CMD, Power Grid Corporation of India Limited.