AMET University conducted a Special Convocation; Eminent Maritime Professionals were Awarded ‘Honoris Causa’ Degrees

Chennai, January 28, 2026

AMET University, Chennai, a premier institution in maritime and allied higher education, successfully conducted its Special Convocation Ceremony on Wednesday, 28 January 2026, at the Anna Centenary Library Auditorium, Kotturpuram, Chennai.

The ceremony commenced with the Welcome Address by Prof. Dr. V. Rajendran, Vice Chancellor, AMET University. The Convocation was presided over by Dr. J. Ramachandran, Founder Chancellor, AMET University, whose visionary leadership has been instrumental in establishing AMET University as a globally respected centre for maritime education, training, and research.

The Special Convocation marked the Conferment of the Degree of Doctor of Science (Honoris Causa) upon two eminent leaders of the maritime industry, in recognition of their exceptional professional contributions, leadership, and service to the maritime sector. The Citations of the ‘Honoris Causa’ awardees were formally read by Col. Dr. G. Thiruvasagam, Provost, AMET University, following which Dr. J. Ramachandran, Founder Chancellor, AMET University, presented the citations and conferred the Degrees of Doctor of Science (Honoris Causa) in a solemn and dignified academic ceremony to:

Capt. Sankalp Shukla, Chairman – FOSMA (Foreign Shipowners’ Representatives and Ship Managers Association) and Managing Director – BSM (Bernhard Schulte Ship Management) India Pvt. Ltd., was honoured for his significant role in advancing maritime operations, enhancing safety standards, and promoting professional excellence at national and international levels.

Capt. Arun Mehta, Managing Director – OSM Thome, India, was honoured for his distinguished leadership in maritime management, manpower development, and his sustained contribution in strengthening India’s maritime human resource capabilities. 

The Convocation was graced by Dr. Rajan Welukar, Vice Chancellor, ATLAS SkillTech University, Mumbai, and former Vice Chancellor of the University of Mumbai, Yashwantrao Chavan Maharashtra Open University, Nashik, and AURO University, Surat, who participated as the Chief Guest and delivered the Convocation Address. In his Convocation Address, Dr. Welukar underscored the critical role of higher education institutions in nurturing future-ready professionals, with particular emphasis on academic integrity, interdisciplinary learning, innovation, and leadership amidst rapid global transformation. He said, "Technology is dangerous when it becomes a substitute for Responsibility; but never ever eliminate responsibility. Artificial Intelligence can assist you but you only can author it. So, sail responsibly, lead courageously and live responsibly."

The Felicitation Address was delivered by Dr. Rajesh Ramachandren, President, AMET University, who highlighted the University’s continued commitment to academic excellence, industry-integrated education, innovation, and sustainability. He encouraged students to pursue lifelong learning and to contribute responsibly and ethically to their professions and to society at large.

Addressing the gathering, the speakers collectively emphasized AMET University’s unique position in maritime education, its strong industry linkages, and its critical role in nurturing globally competent professionals equipped to meet contemporary challenges in the maritime, logistics, and allied sectors.

The Special Convocation Ceremony was attended by members of the Executive Council, Academic Council, Finance Committee, senior administrators, faculty members, industry leaders, parents, and graduating students. The event reflected AMET University’s enduring mission to foster knowledge, leadership, and service, while further strengthening its engagement with the global maritime fraternity.

The ceremony concluded with the National Anthem, marking a memorable, dignified, and inspiring academic occasion for the entire University community.

Source: AMET University / TST News Desk  

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