The Indian Institute of Technology Madras (IIT Madras) celebrated the achievements of its international students during a special Degree Distribution Programme, where graduating scholars from across the world received degrees across postgraduate and doctoral programmes.

The event marked the successful completion of studies for international students enrolled in programmes including MTech, MS, PhD, joint degrees and other international academic collaborations. Graduates representing several countries participated in the ceremony, highlighting the institute’s growing global academic presence.

Addressing the gathering as chief guest, Vikram Misri, Foreign Secretary of India, congratulated the graduating students and encouraged them to apply the knowledge, skills and research experience gained at IIT Madras to address global challenges, particularly those affecting developing nations.

He urged students to use innovation and technology to contribute to sustainable development and problem-solving in an era of rapid technological transformation. Emphasising the importance of global cooperation, he noted that highly skilled graduates have an important role to play in addressing issues related to economic development, infrastructure, healthcare, education and climate resilience.

The ceremony also reflected India’s growing role as an international higher education destination. Over the years, IIT Madras has expanded opportunities for students from different countries through scholarships, academic partnerships and dedicated international outreach initiatives.

The institute offers several support mechanisms for overseas students, including scholarships under the IIT Madras Global Engagement initiatives, the Indian Council for Cultural Relations (ICCR) programme, the Study in India initiative and other international collaborations. These efforts have helped attract talented students from Asia, Africa and other regions.

Officials noted that international enrolment at IIT Madras has steadily increased in recent years, with strong participation from countries across the Global South. The institute has also strengthened global academic engagement through research collaborations, exchange programmes and international partnerships.

For many graduating students, the ceremony marked not only the completion of their academic journey but also the beginning of careers in research, industry, entrepreneurship and public service. The event underscored the growing importance of international education and the role of institutions such as IIT Madras in preparing graduates to contribute to global development through science, technology and innovation.