IIT Bombay’s leadership embarked on a meaningful engagement with its alumni community in Japan in August 2024, reflecting the Institute’s commitment to fostering global connections and leveraging the expertise of its graduates worldwide. This series of events, held in Hiroshima, Kyoto, and Tokyo, underscored the vital role that alumni play in elevating IIT Bombay’s global reputation, particularly in the academic and industrial sectors.

Hiroshima

On August 7, 2024, a select group of IIT Bombay alumni had the privilege of meeting with the Institute’s leadership during their visit to Hiroshima. The meeting was attended by:

–  Prof. Shireesh Kedare, Director, IIT Bombay
–  Prof. Sudarshan Kumar, Dean IR
–  Prof. Krishna P. Kaliappan, Dean Strategy
–  Mr. Rishabh Jain
–  Dr. Varun Varghese
–  Dr. Vinayak Bhanage
–  Dr. Sneha Kulkarni

The discussions focused on how alumni could strengthen collaborations between Japanese industries and IIT Bombay to promote innovation, research, and mutual growth, highlighting the crucial role that alumni play in advancing the Institute’s global footprint.

Kyoto

Later that evening, alumni from the Kansai region gathered for a special meeting with Prof. Shirish Kedare, Prof. Sudarshan, and Prof. Kaliappan. Held at Veg Cafe Ren, the event was attended by 13 alumni members. Once the introductions were over, alumni shared their experiences in Japan and reflected on their time at IIT Bombay. Discussions on the pros and cons of living in Japan, led by alumni including Mr. Raj Dabre, Mr. Mayank, and Mr. Aniket, provided a deeper understanding of the unique challenges and opportunities faced by the community. Mr. Vikas Pandey, a member of the Executive Committee, highlighted a recent initiative aimed at fostering collaborations with Japanese organizations through the alumni network.

Prof. Kedare then shared updates on key initiatives at IIT Bombay, including the Research Park, the Shine Fund, and the Institute’s interdisciplinary approach being adopted across several departments. His insights were both inspiring and motivating, reinforcing the Institute’s commitment to innovation and excellence. The meeting successfully strengthened the bonds within the alumni community and their connection to IIT Bombay.

Tokyo

Prof. Shireesh Kedare, Director, IIT Bombay, addresses alumni

Prof. Sudarshan Kumar, Dean IR, addresses alumni

Prof. Krishna Kaliappan, Dean, Strategy, during his keynote speech

Dr. Yashawant Dev Panwar, Counsellor, Embassy of India in Tokyo (Science and Tech.), delivers his keynote speech

The “Japan Alumni Connect 2024” event culminated on August 10, 2024 in Tokyo. Held at the Keio Plaza Hotel in Shinjuku, Tokyo, the event brought together 72 participants, including 54 alumni and 14 family members, providing a platform for alumni to reconnect with peers, engage with institute leaders, and gain insights into the latest developments at IIT Bombay.

The event began with welcoming remarks and an interactive quiz on IIT Bombay trivia. The main session featured keynote speeches from Prof. Shireesh Kedare, Prof. Krishna Kaliappan, and Prof. Sudarshan Kumar. The speakers provided comprehensive overviews of the Institute’s recent achievements, strategic initiatives, and international relations efforts, emphasizing the importance of alumni engagement in these areas.

Dr. Yashawant Dev Panwar, Counsellor for Science and Technology at the Embassy of India in Tokyo, delivered a special address where he highlighted the crucial roles played by the IIT Bombay diaspora in Japan. He elaborated on how they strengthened the bilateral relationship between India and Japan, particularly in the fields of science and technology. Dr. Panwar also encouraged alumni to engage more with the Indian embassy in Japan, especially since their expertise and networks could play a pivotal role in bridging the needs of both countries.

Alumni share their work and achievements

Following the formal presentations, attendees enjoyed a lavish lunch, which provided an opportunity for networking and fostering new connections. The afternoon session introduced a new segment, “Alumni Speak,” where alumni presented under two tracks: “Give Back” and “Share Achievements.” This segment encouraged alumni to propose ways to strengthen collaboration between IIT Bombay and Japan and share their professional journeys, offering valuable insights into the cutting-edge research and developments they have been involved in.

The Japan Alumni Connect 2024 event concluded with closing remarks and a vote of thanks from the organizers. The event was a resounding success, fulfilling its objective of bringing the IIT Bombay community in Japan closer together. Attendees left with a renewed sense of connection to their alma mater and a shared commitment to contributing to its future endeavours, reinforcing IIT Bombay’s global impact and its dedication to fostering innovation and excellence worldwide.

The Japan Alumni Connect 2024 highlighted the deep and enduring bond between IIT Bombay and its global alumni community. These gatherings not only reaffirmed the alumni’s pride in their alma mater but also underscored the Institute’s commitment to fostering lifelong connections that transcend geographical boundaries. As IIT Bombay forges ahead, its relationship with alumni remains pivotal in driving forward its mission to achieve greater heights in research, education, and industry collaboration.

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