Anant National University celebrated its 7th Convocation on December 6, 2025, in Ahmedabad. It was a big day for 299 students who received degrees in various programs, including design, architecture, and sustainability. Families and faculty gathered to applaud their hard work.
The guest speaker, Dr. Sridhar Vembu, a Padma Shri awardee and co-founder of Zoho Corporation, inspired the graduates with his journey. He emphasized creativity and innovation, saying that the projects he saw were not only beautiful but also aimed at solving real-world problems. Dr. Vembu stressed the importance of humility and a genuine focus on improving lives through design.
He shared that success isn’t just about wealth or fame; it’s about contentment and solving issues that matter to communities. His company, Zoho, took a unique path since its founding in 1996. Unlike many tech firms that chase the spotlight, Zoho has built its own products and focused on young talent from small towns, proving that a values-driven approach can lead to sustainable success.
Ajay Piramal, President of Anant National University, also spoke at the event, highlighting how design can change industries and communities. He noted that India’s goal should shift from merely manufacturing to designing with purpose. The aim is to create innovative solutions that enhance everyday life.
Provost Dr. Sanjeev Vidyarthi encouraged students to embrace new technologies and ideas, reminding them that they play a key role in shaping India’s future. He believes that aspirations for a developed India, or “Viksit Bharat,” are now more tangible than ever.
Special awards were given to students for excellence in various categories, celebrating those who stood out for their creativity and hard work. The campus turned into an exhibition space, showcasing projects that tackled social and environmental challenges, reflecting the university’s mission to nurture responsible designers.
Anant National University has a tradition of inviting esteemed leaders to its convocations. Past guests have included well-known figures like Sudha Murty and B.V. Doshi, all of whom inspire students to serve society with their skills.
This convocation marked not just an end but a new beginning for the graduates. Equipped with creativity, compassion, and a commitment to make a difference, they are poised to impact India’s future positively.
For more insights on design’s role in sustainable practices, you can check this report by the United Nations on global climate actions.
