The National Institute of Fashion Technology (NIFT), Shillong, under the Ministry of Textiles, Government of India, successfully held its 13th Convocation Ceremony for the Class of 2025 today at Lariti, International Centre for Performing Arts and Culture, Mawdiangdiang, Shillong.
The solemn occasion was graced by Shri Paul Lyngdoh, Hon’ble Minister of Arts & Culture, Social Welfare, Textiles, and Tourism, Government of Meghalaya, as the Chief Guest, and Ms. Pooja Ratnakar, NIFT Alumna, Social Entrepreneur and Founder of Potli, as the Guest of Honour.
The ceremony commenced with the lighting of the lamp accompanied by a Saraswati Vandana recital, followed by the Academic Report Presentation by Shri Shankar Kumar Jha, Director, NIFT Shillong, who highlighted the institute’s achievements, faculty achievements, student’s achievements and the remarkable journey of the graduating batch of 145 students.
Prof. (Dr.) Noopur Anand, Dean (Academics), NIFT addressed the gathering, reinforcing NIFT’s vision of design leadership and academic excellence. She encouraged the graduates to “carry with you values of creativity, positivity and the industry is looking for your skills. Success is about the difference that you make, let curiosity be your constant guide. Dream big, work hard, go forth and set the word with your brilliance”.
The Convocation Oath was administered by Prof. (Dr.) Shinju Mahajan, Head Academic Affairs, NIFT Headquarters and congratulated the graduating batch 2025.
The degrees and certificates were conferred upon the graduating students by the Chief Guest, Shri Paul Lyngdoh. In his Convocation Address, the Hon’ble Minister urged the graduates to harness creativity with responsibility, reminding them that the future of design lies not only in aesthetics but also in cultural rootedness and social impact. He encouraged the graduates, who are now stepping into the “university of life,” to cultivate dedication and resilience in all their pursuits. Shri Lyngdoh highlighted milestones such as Ryndia’s recognition with the GI Tag and Meghalaya’s forthcoming role as host of the National Games 2027. He further inspired the students to let their hands touch lives and allow their vision to guide them, carrying with them the vibrant culture, colours, and cuisine of this land; sharing the flavours of Meghalaya wherever they go.
Delivering her address, the Guest of Honour, Ms. Pooja Ratnakar, NIFT alumna, inspired the graduates by recalling her own Convocation experience three decades ago and sharing insights from her entrepreneurial journey. She emphasised the power of design thinking and social innovation in shaping sustainable futures while drawing from India’s rich cultural heritage and educational traditions. Underscoring that “design is about resilience and innovation,” she urged the students to remain curious, stay rooted, and draw strength from their own land and culture.
In his speech, Mr. Shankar K. Jha, Director of NIFT Shillong said to the 145 graduates . . . “We stand at a momentous juncture, where our dreams and aspirations have taken physical form in this campus. To our students, your creativity is your greatest asset. Use it to challenge conventions, drive change, and shape the future of fashion. As you graduate today, embrace the opportunities ahead, and continue to strive for excellence in all your endeavours.”
The 13th Convocation was a landmark celebration, reflecting both the academic rigour and creative spirit of NIFT Shillong, while sending forth a new generation of designers poised to contribute to the nation’s growing creative economy. NIFT Shillong looks forward to continuing its mission of nurturing future leaders in fashion and contributing to the region’s cultural and economic development.