The Symbiosis Skills & Professional University (SSPU) in Pune marked its 6th Convocation Ceremony, conferring degrees upon 755 graduating students in a prestigious event. Union Defence Minister Rajnath Singh served as the Chief Guest, while Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis attended as the Guest of Honour. The occasion highlighted the institution's commitment to skill-based education and innovation, aligning with India's broader goals of employability and self-reliance.
As documented by the Chief Minister's Office (CMO) Maharashtra through shared photographs, a formal group portrait featured Deputy Chief Minister Fadnavis and Minister Singh alongside state ministers Chandrakant Patil and Mangal Prabhat Lodha, Minister of State Madhuri Misal, SSPU Founder and Chancellor Padma Bhushan Dr. S. B. Mujumdar, members of the managing committee, governing body, board of management, academic council, distinguished award recipients, and participants in the university's skill training programs for women.
Under the stewardship of Dr. S. B. Mujumdar and Dr. Swati Mujumdar, SSPU has established itself as a pioneer in experiential learning, emphasizing practical training that equips students for immediate workforce integration. The university's curriculum spans disciplines such as automotive engineering, data science, and wellness management, resulting in a reported 95% placement rate among alumni, who secure positions at leading organizations including Tata Group and Siemens. This approach addresses critical gaps in India's employment landscape, fostering professionals who contribute to economic growth and technological advancement.
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A key highlight of the ceremony was the inauguration of the School of Defence & Aerospace Technology, introducing a specialized B.Tech program. This initiative directly supports national priorities in defense and aerospace sectors, in line with the 'Make in India' and Atmanirbhar Bharat campaigns. The school aims to develop expertise in areas like drone technology, satellite systems, and advanced manufacturing, with potential collaborations involving the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) and Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO). Dr. Swati Mujumdar noted that the program would cultivate talent essential for safeguarding national security and advancing aerospace innovation, potentially leading to breakthroughs in indigenous defense capabilities.
For the graduates, the convocation represented not only academic achievement but also a commitment to nation-building. Many recipients, drawn from diverse backgrounds including rural areas, exemplified resilience through their mastery of industry-relevant skills, thereby bridging socio-economic divides. The event also foreshadowed expansions, such as enhanced scholarship schemes and international academic partnerships, which could position SSPU as a global hub for vocational education in Pune's evolving ecosystem.
In preparation for the Defence Minister's visit, the Pimpri-Chinchwad traffic police implemented a comprehensive advisory to ensure security and smooth operations. Routes such as Mulshi to Bavdhan and Pashan via Viva Circle were closed, with diversions directed through the NCC Office, Bhugaon, Kothrud, and True Value Underpass. Similarly, traffic from Chandani Chowk–Satara lane service road to Bavdhan and Pashan was rerouted via Kothrud or the DIY showroom road. These measures, while causing temporary disruptions, underscored the event's significance and facilitated uninterrupted proceedings.
As SSPU advances its mission, the institution reinforces India's trajectory toward a skilled, innovative workforce, poised to drive progress in defense, technology, and beyond on both national and international stages.
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