Chairman and Secretary, Department of Space, Dr V. Narayanan, urged graduates of Great Lakes Institute of Management, Chennai, to focus on teamwork, continuous learning and character as they begin their professional journeys.

Addressing more than 650 students at the institute’s 22nd convocation, Narayanan traced India’s development since Independence and highlighted the evolution of the country’s space programme as an example of building capabilities despite constraints.

He referred to India’s first rocket launch from Indian soil in 1963, when components were transported by bicycle, and the subsequent development of indigenous technologies, including cryogenic engines and the Chandrayaan-3 mission.

Narayanan said ISRO’s achievements also offer lessons in management and leadership, stressing the importance of bringing together multidisciplinary teams, subject matter experts and partners to achieve common goals.

“ISRO succeeds because of the team,” he told the graduates, emphasising collective effort over individual contribution.

He also urged students to treat learning as a lifelong responsibility. “A graduate not reading tomorrow will not be considered literate the day after,” he said, encouraging them to continue developing their skills and remain adaptable.

Dr Debashis Sanyal, Director, Great Lakes Institute of Management, Chennai, said leadership involves taking responsibility for people and institutions and creating value for society. He encouraged graduates to lead with curiosity, courage and integrity while remaining open to learning and different perspectives.

The Class of 2026 comprises 707 graduates across the institute’s PGPM, PGDM, PGXPM and PGPM (Flex) programmes.

Narayanan also urged graduates to recognise the contribution of their parents, teachers, taxpayers and the wider ecosystem supporting education and national development, and encouraged them to contribute to India’s development towards Viksit Bharat by 2047.

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