The IIT Bombay Alumni Association’s UAE Chapter successfully hosted its 2024 Alumni Meet, bringing together a vibrant group of alumni for a memorable day of networking, learning, and celebrating IIT Bombay’s legacy. The event served as a testament to the strong bonds shared by the Institute’s alumni community, fostering new connections and opening doors to future collaborations.

Prof. Shireesh Kedare, Director, IIT Bombay shared the latest milestones and achievements of the Institute with the attendees. Prof. Kedare emphasized IIT Bombay’s continued commitment to global excellence while inspiring alumni to stay engaged in the Institute’s mission of fostering innovation and societal impact. His address was followed by Prof. Ravi Gudi, Dean ACR, who underscored the critical role alumni play in supporting the Institute’s vision, whether through mentorship, financial contributions, or partnerships.

Mr. Advait Kurlekar, IITBAA Chairperson, then took the stage and provided a comprehensive overview of the association’s plans and initiatives. His address highlighted the importance of building a strong and engaged alumni network that supports both current students and the broader IIT Bombay community.

Prof. Gudi returned to deliver a heartfelt Vote of Thanks, expressing appreciation for the alumni’s continued dedication and participation.

The event transitioned to an intellectually enriching Masterclass titled “Harnessing AI for Sustaining Innovation” by Prof. Markus Baer, Vice Dean of Executive Education at Washington University, St. Louis. The session stressed how human creativity and intuition need to be prioritized by leaders as they harness Artificial Intelligence’s potential and strategic applications. The Masterclass also highlighted the catalytic role played by AI for sustainable innovation. The CEO of the IIT Bombay-WashU Joint Venture, Mr. Gopal Shukla, introduced the compelling session to the audience. The interactive session included a dynamic Q&A that allowed participants to delve deeper into strategies for excelling in their professional journeys.

The event concluded with a Lunch and Networking session, where attendees engaged in lively discussions and explored new avenues for collaboration. The informal atmosphere provided an excellent opportunity for alumni to strengthen connections and discuss potential partnerships that could further their shared goals.

The 2024 UAE Chapter Alumni Meet was a resounding success, reaffirming the vital role IIT Bombay plays in empowering its alumni to excel across various fields. With the alumni community’s continued support, IIT Bombay continues to be a hub of innovation and leadership, fostering an engaged community that is committed to driving progress on the global stage.