Bhubaneswar: Birla Global University (BGU), Bhubaneswar, welcomed its latest cohort of students at the Commencement Day Programme 2026, marking the beginning of their academic journey at the Birla School of Applied Sciences (BSAS) and the Birla School of Engineering & Technology (BSET).

The programme formally inducted students enrolled in the BCA 2026–29, MCA 2026–28 and B.Tech 2026–30 programmes. The event introduced the new students to the university's academic environment, institutional values and expectations as they begin their higher education journey.

The programme was attended by Himanshu Jessie Wadia, Director, PgM – AI Innovation & Automation, Amdocs, as the Chief Guest, while Premchand Kurup, CEO, Paramount Assure, Dubai, joined as the Guest of Honour.

Also present were Prof. Kulbhushan Balooni, Vice Chancellor, Birla Global University; Dr. Sanjay Kumar Kuanar, Dean, Birla School of Applied Sciences and Birla School of Engineering & Technology; and Tanmay Kumar Pattanayak, Registrar, along with faculty members, alumni, staff and students.

Addressing the incoming students, Chief Guest Himanshu Jessie Wadia highlighted the importance of developing wisdom alongside academic knowledge. He urged students to question, think critically and use technology responsibly, while also emphasising the role of choosing the right surroundings and people in shaping their future.

Guest of Honour Premchand Kurup encouraged the students to focus on their potential and remain adaptable in a rapidly changing corporate environment. He advised them to stay committed to the learning process, embrace change and remain determined to pursue their ambitions.

Vice Chancellor Prof. Kulbhushan Balooni urged the students to balance academic excellence with broader personal development. He encouraged them to take their core subjects seriously while also building social connections, respecting cultural values and developing skills that extend beyond the classroom.

Dr. Sanjay Kumar Kuanar, Dean of BSAS and BSET, highlighted the rapid transformation of the digital ecosystem into an AI-driven world. He encouraged students to continuously upgrade their skills and knowledge and focus on using their education to create new opportunities rather than viewing a degree merely as an academic qualification.

Registrar Tanmay Kumar Pattanayak also emphasised the need for students to keep pace with technological advancements. He said BGU is committed to providing students with a strong learning experience and encouraged them to think beyond conventional classroom learning, remain innovative and prepare themselves for industry requirements.

The programme concluded with a formal vote of thanks delivered by Dr. Bandita Sahu, Assistant Professor, Birla School of Applied Sciences and Birla School of Engineering & Technology.

As part of the commencement activities, BGU will also conduct a two-day orientation programme for the newly admitted students to help them familiarise themselves with the university and their academic programmes.