The Department of Chemical Engineering at Annamalai University marked its 75th anniversary with a grand alumni convention at the prestigious Sastri Hall. The event brought together a distinguished gathering of alumni, faculty, and dignitaries to commemorate the department's significant contributions to the field of chemical engineering.
Gracing the occasion were eminent personalities including Vice Chancellor Col. Prof. Rm. Kathiresan, Padma Shri Prof. G. D. Yadav, Professor of Eminence from ICT Mumbai, and a host of successful alumni holding leadership positions in various industries.
The event commenced with a warm welcome by Prof. R. Saravanan, Head of the Department, followed by an insightful presidential address by Prof. C. Karthikeyan, Dean of the Faculty of Engineering and Technology, who highlighted the department's achievements and the enduring bond between alumni and alma mater.
In his inaugural address, the Vice Chancellor expressed pride in the University's legacy and its role in empowering underprivileged students. He emphasized the importance of a strong alumni network for the University's self-sustainability and announced the establishment of an "alumni wall of fame" in every department.
Padma Shri Prof. G. D. Yadav delivered a captivating keynote address on the future of chemical engineering, inspiring the audience with his visionary insights. He also proposed the creation of a "Super Star Hall" to harness the expertise of retired faculty.
The 1990 batch made a significant contribution of Rs. 1,14,000 towards laboratory equipment. The 1963-68 batch instituted a rolling trophy for the department's top-ranking student, which was presented jointly by Prof. Yadav and the Vice Chancellor.
Prof. R.M. Bairavan, a former faculty member and the oldest alumnus of the Department, offered felicitations, followed by esteemed alumni Mr. R. Narasimman, Director of Protek Consultants, Mr. W.S. Aruldoss Kanthiah, Outstanding Scientist at the Heavy Water Board, Mr. S. Ilanahai, Managing Director of CETEX Petrochemicals, and Mrs. Padma, Head of Project Delivery at Kellogg Brown and Root. In their addresses, the alumni commended the University for its remarkable efforts in reconnecting with alumni across the globe and from various disciplines over the past three years. They expressed their enthusiasm for contributing to the institution that nurtured their success. The alumni highlighted the Vice-Chancellor's instrumental role in rebuilding the alumni network. They further expressed optimism that if the Vice-Chancellor continues his work for another three years, the alumni network and its associated activities will witness exponential growth and benefit the university.
The convention featured insightful panel discussions on "Energy, Environment and Economy" and a general talk on "Ulagai Vasippom" by renowned writer S. Ramakrishnan. A floral tribute honored departed faculty and alumni.
An afternoon panel discussion on "Energy, Environment, and Economy" featured eminent experts. Dr. V. Sanjeevi, Director of ennVEE Solutions, moderated the session with insights from Mr. Shyam Sekar, Chief Ideator and Founder of ithought, Mr. S. Raghupathy, Principal Advisor at CII, New Delhi, and Mr. Saravanan Ramadass from KPIC Kuwait.
The event concluded with a cultural evening showcasing the talents of Annamalai University's Music College students. This historic gathering served as a platform for alumni to reconnect, share experiences, and contribute to the department's continued success.