TISS Awards 1,377 Degrees At 86th Convocation

The Tata Institute of Social Sciences (TISS) held its 86th Convocation on August 22, 2026, awarding degrees to 1,377 students across its four campuses. This milestone event marked the institute's entry into its 90th year and featured Dr. C. S. Pramesh, Director of Tata Memorial Hospital, as the Chief Guest.

The convocation ceremony was a celebration of achievement, excellence, and new beginnings for the students. TISS Chancellor Prof. D. P. Singh delivered the presidential address, emphasizing the importance of considering the ethical implications of artificial intelligence. He cautioned against the risks of over-reliance on automated thinking, perpetuation of historical biases, and erosion of indigenous wisdom.

Prof. Singh urged graduates to act as responsible agents, processing technological risks without surrendering human agency. He emphasized that while technology provides speed, human values must guide its direction. The institute's Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Badri Narayan Tiwari, presented the Annual Report for 2025-2026, highlighting major strategic initiatives under the 'TISS Bharat' and 'TISS Global' frameworks.

The report outlined academic modernization aligned with the National Education Policy, including the establishment of the Viksit Bharat Vichar Kendra, a think tank for evidence-based policy research. A new partnership with IIT Bombay was also announced, aiming to set up a Centre for Artificial Intelligence and Society under the Ratan Tata School of Analytics.

TISS Global expanded its international footprint, building partnerships across several countries, including Nepal, Zambia, Brazil, the US, and the UK. The institute enrolled 51 full-time international students and admitted 1,520 students across 57 degree programmes through its newly consolidated TISS Admissions Office.

The event concluded with TISS leadership reiterating the institute's commitment to community-driven development, institutional accountability, and interdisciplinary public service. As TISS builds toward its 2036 centenary roadmap, it remains focused on addressing pressing social issues and promoting sustainable development.

The 86th Convocation marked a significant milestone in TISS's history, celebrating the achievements of its students and reaffirming its dedication to creating positive social change. With its strong emphasis on AI ethics, social reform, and community-driven development, TISS continues to play a vital role in shaping the future of India and the world.

As the institute looks to the future, it is clear that its commitment to excellence, innovation, and social responsibility will remain at the forefront of its mission. With the conferral of degrees to 1,377 students, TISS has taken another step toward achieving its vision of creating a more just and equitable society.

In the context of India's growing focus on artificial intelligence and technology, TISS's emphasis on AI ethics and social reform is particularly relevant. The institute's efforts to promote responsible innovation and address the social implications of technological advancements are crucial in ensuring that the benefits of technology are equitably distributed.

As TISS continues to evolve and grow, it is likely to remain a leading institution in the field of social sciences, driving positive change and promoting sustainable development in India and beyond. The 86th Convocation marked an important milestone in this journey, celebrating the achievements of TISS students and reaffirming the institute's commitment to creating a better future for all.

The significance of this event extends beyond the institute itself, highlighting the importance of considering the ethical implications of technological advancements and promoting responsible innovation. As India continues to grow and develop, it is essential that institutions like TISS remain at the forefront of addressing pressing social issues and promoting sustainable development.

In conclusion, the 86th Convocation of TISS was a celebration of achievement, excellence, and new beginnings, marking an important milestone in the institute's history. With its strong emphasis on AI ethics, social reform, and community-driven development, TISS continues to play a vital role in shaping the future of India and the world.