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IIT Madras 63rd Convocation: A Celebration of Achievements and Global Ambitions

On July 17, 2026, the prestigious Indian Institute of Technology Madras (IIT Madras) marked its 63rd Convocation, a significant occasion that not only acknowledged the accomplishments of its graduates but also showcased the institute's expanding global presence. The Chief Guest of this momentous event was His Excellency Dr. Hussein Ali Mwinyi, the President of Zanzibar and Chairman of the Revolutionary Council.

During the ceremony, a remarkable total of 3,518 degrees were conferred, including 511 PhDs, underscoring IIT Madras's commitment to fostering talent and innovation in engineering and technology. Among the many highlights was the unveiling of the IIT Madras Zanzibar campus layout, which will be established in Fumba Peninsula, marking the debut of India’s first international IIT campus.

This new campus is poised to be a state-of-the-art facility over 200 acres, designed to facilitate a holistic educational environment that integrates academia with spaces for innovations, sports, and startups, as well as residential accommodations for students and faculty. Such developments reflect the forward-thinking approach that IIT Madras is renowned for.

President Mwinyi, while addressing the gathering, emphasized the transformative power of technologies such as Artificial Intelligence, robotics, biotechnology, and quantum technologies. He noted that these innovations are reshaping every facet of human life. “Yet,” he remarked, “technology alone has never guaranteed progress. Every great innovation presents humanity with a choice. That choice belongs not to technology itself but to those who create it.” This statement resonates with the core values of IIT Madras, reinforcing the need for ethical responsibility in technological advancements.

Furthermore, President Mwinyi elaborated on the significance of the India-Zanzibar partnership, stating, “The establishment of IIT Madras Zanzibar represents far more than an educational milestone. It reflects a shared belief that knowledge should know no borders and that excellence should never be confined by geography.” His remarks highlighted the importance of collaborative efforts in addressing global challenges through education and innovation.

Dr. Pawan Goenka, Chairman of the Board of Governors at IIT Madras, echoed these sentiments, reiterating that “the presence of the President of Zanzibar at our Convocation reflects a partnership built on a shared belief that education, innovation, and human capital are the foundations of lasting development.”

The Director of IIT Madras, Prof. V. Kamakoti, presented a report indicating that the new Zanzibar campus has already attracted 130 students from various countries, including Tanzania, Kenya, and India, with its inaugural Master of Technology (M.Tech) program achieving an impressive 100 percent placement record in industry. Plans to increase enrollment from 350 to 500 students by 2027 are also underway, showcasing the popularity and demand for quality education provided by IIT Madras.

Additionally, Prof. Kamakoti highlighted the recent launch of the IITM Global Foundation, aimed at advancing the institute’s vision of establishing itself as the world’s first multinational university. This pioneering initiative reflects IIT Madras's commitment to global educational standards and partnerships.

In conclusion, the 63rd Convocation of IIT Madras was not just a celebration of academic success but a testament to the institute’s dedication to enhancing its global footprint. Through partnerships like the one with Zanzibar and continuous innovation, IIT Madras is poised to lead the next generation of engineers and technologists, transcending borders and making a significant impact on the world stage.