West Bengal, India: The Indian Institute of Technology, Kharagpur hosted an Induction Meet for the students to welcome its new batch of undergraduate students with a dynamic and engaging four-day orientation programme, setting the stage for a memorable start to their academic journey. Held at the Netaji Auditorium, the event offered freshers an immersive introduction to the institute’s vibrant community, rich traditions, and cutting-edge resources. The orientation aimed to seamlessly integrate the new students into the vibrant campus environment and familiarize them with the academic and administrative structures of the institute.

During this long induction programme, freshers came to know about the plethora of student-run societies, clubs & cells of the college and also the various advanced research facilities including CoEAI & CoEAMT which are designed specifically for research purposes and higher studies. The programme consisted of several cultural shows conducted by the cultural clubs of our college entertaining the audience and picking the interests of the freshers.

Highlights of the Orientation Programme:

1. Heartfelt Welcome for Parents: The orientation kicked off with a special session for parents, aimed at easing their minds and introducing them to IIT-KGP’s robust academic and administrative framework. Parents were reassured of the institute’s dedication to delivering world-class education and comprehensive support for their children’s success.
2.  Meet the Leadership: The programme featured appearances by key figures including Director Prof. Virendra Tewari, Deputy Director Prof. Rintu Banerjee, and Registrar Capt. Amit Jain (Retd.) who gave their insightful addresses and profound backgrounder of the institute, its moto, its vision and its mission for the freshers, providing valuable guidance and set a tone of excellence and support.
3. Exploration of Campus: Freshers enjoyed guided bus tours of the sprawling IIT-KGP campus, exploring landmarks like the Ramanujam Complex, various academic departments, and the impressive Nalanda Classroom Complex. The tours included captivating narratives about the campus’s history and state-of-the-art facilities.
4. Interactive Buddy Sessions: To foster connections and ease the transition, new students were grouped into teams of 20 and paired with 2-3 seniors. These interactive sessions featured fun games and informative discussions, helping freshers navigate campus life and build lasting friendships.
5. Cultural Extravaganza: The orientation showcased the vibrant cultural life at IIT KGP through a series of performances by the student clubs. These lively displays not only entertained but also highlighted the rich array of cultural activities awaiting the freshers.
6. Personalized Mentoring: In an innovative support initiative, small groups consisting of four freshers and a senior student from the 3rd or 4th year were formed. This mentoring approach aims to provide personalized guidance on academic and residential matters, ensuring a smooth transition into college life.
7. Residence Allocation: Freshers have been assigned to their new homes with boys residing in the Lal Bahadur Shastri Hall of Residence (LBS), the largest hall on campus, while girls will stay in the Sister Nivedita Hall of Residence (SNVH). These accommodations are designed to offer comfort and foster community.
8. Exciting Curriculum Updates: The academic curriculum has been updated with department-specific classes, the abolition of branch change, and the introduction of a Dual Degree programme that students can opt for at the end of their 1st and 2nd years, adding flexibility and opportunities for advanced study.

“Our induction programme for the Class of 2024 marks the beginning of an exciting chapter at IIT Kharagpur. This meticulously designed orientation is not only about acquainting students with our academic framework but also about welcoming them into a community where curiosity and collaboration thrive. We are dedicated to providing a holistic introduction that balances essential academic information with opportunities for personal growth and cultural enrichment. By fostering early connections and offering robust support, we aim to empower our new students to navigate their journey with confidence and enthusiasm. We are eager to see them contribute to and benefit from the experiences that make IIT Kharagpur truly exceptional,” said Prof. Rintu Banerjee, Deputy Director, IIT Kharagpur.

While speaking in the Induction Programme 2024, Prof. Virendra Tewari, Director, Indian Institute of Technology, Kharagpur remarked, “As we welcome the Class of 2024 to IIT Kharagpur, we are excited to introduce them to our unique blend of academic rigor and vibrant campus life. This year’s induction was more special as it gave the parents an opportunity to interact with me, the Deputy Director, the Academic Deans and the respective professors about what strengthens of character are needed for their children to pursue a holistic development and fulfill individual aspirations. This year’s induction programme is crafted to not only familiarize our new students with the essentials of college life but to also immerse them in the rich traditions and dynamic culture that define our institute. Our goal is to ensure every student feels embraced, empowered, and ready to excel. Through engaging interactions, insightful guidance, and cultural immersion, we are committed to making their transition as smooth and inspiring as possible. We look forward to witness their growth and achievements as they embark on this transformative journey with us.”

This year for the first time IIT Kharagpur opened its gates for the JEE Qualified Candidates 2024. The Institute held Open House Campus Tour where 15 JEE Qualified Candidates of 2024 visited IIT Kharagpur along with their parents and explored the ambience of the largest and the first IIT of the nation. The team of JEE Candidates were joined by the IIT students in the fun and exciting campus tour of the institution including visits to various departments, labs, centres of excellence, student activity centres, Technology Students’ Gymkhana and some of the major attractions of the KGP community. They interacted with the existing students of the institute to know about the course curriculums and how IIT KGP turned out to be their desirable destination for steering ahead their aspirational career goals and the custodian of their dreams.