MICA's 31st Convocation Celebrates 255 Graduates with Inspiring Address from Tata Starbucks CEO
In a significant academic milestone, the Mudra Institute of Communications, Ahmedabad (MICA) held its 31st convocation ceremony on Saturday evening, conferring degrees upon a total of 255 students. The event was graced by Sushant Dash, CEO of Tata Starbucks and a distinguished alumnus from the 1996 batch, who served as the chief guest, delivering a powerful speech to the graduating class.
Key Insights from Chief Guest Sushant Dash
In his address, Dash challenged the conventional wisdom around success, stating that brilliance is merely a starting point. He elaborated, "Talent is common, alignment is rare, and excellence is a team sport." Emphasizing the importance of sustained effort, he advised, "Chase sparks, they are important. But build discipline, that is what will keep success." Dash specifically encouraged the Class of 2026 to prioritize purpose over prestige during their foundational career years, urging them to focus on meaningful contributions rather than mere accolades.
He further highlighted the value of simplicity and critical thinking in an increasingly complex world. "Embrace simplicity in problem-solving rather than gravitating toward unnecessary complexity," Dash said. With the rise of artificial intelligence, he stressed the irreplaceable role of human judgment, noting, "Cultivate sound judgment, because it is the most irreplaceable human skill as AI democratizes knowledge." This message resonated strongly with the graduates, preparing them for the evolving professional landscape.
Diverse Student Profiles and Academic Programs
The graduating cohort showcased a rich diversity, with students from various academic and professional backgrounds. The breakdown of degrees awarded included:
- 152 students from the Post Graduate Diploma in Management Communications (PGDMC) program
- 49 students from the Post Graduate Diploma in Management (PGDM) program
- 48 students from the Crafting Creative Communications (CCC) program
- 6 students from the Fellow Programme in Management (FPM) program
Prof Ruchi Tewari, the Chief Marketing Officer at MICA, remarked on the eclectic nature of this year's batch, noting that students came from different walks of life. A notable example is Dhruvam Nanavati, who held an MBBS degree before earning his PGDM, illustrating the institute's appeal to varied career paths.
Institute Vision and Placement Success
Jaya Deshmukh, the Director and CEO of MICA, outlined the institute's vision, which is anchored in creativity, culture, communication, commerce, and community through the unique MICA lens. This holistic approach aims to foster well-rounded professionals equipped to tackle modern challenges.
The convocation also highlighted impressive placement outcomes, with institute officials reporting a 31% rise in summer placements. The final placement process is continuing with strong momentum, having already engaged over 130 companies. In a standout achievement, the highest package offered was Rs 45.7 lakh by Google, underscoring the high demand for MICA graduates in top-tier organizations. This success reflects the institute's commitment to academic excellence and industry relevance, providing a robust launchpad for the new alumni.
