Overview
The School of Engineering & Technology (SOET), Pimpri Chinchwad University (PCU), successfully organized Deeksharambh – Induction Ceremony AY 2026–27 on 28 July 2026, warmly welcoming the newest batch of engineering students and marking the beginning of their academic journey.
The programme commenced with the Lamp Lighting Ceremony and Saraswati Pujan, symbolising the pursuit of knowledge, wisdom, and excellence. The occasion also celebrated the achievements of First Year B.Tech toppers, recognizing their academic performance and inspiring the incoming students.
The ceremony was graced by Dr. Vijay Suryawanshi, IAS, Municipal Commissioner, PCMC, as the Chief Guest, Mr. K. Venkatesan, General Manager, Larsen & Toubro, Pune, as the Guest of Honour, and Shri. Harshwardhan S. Patil, Chancellor, Pimpri Chinchwad University, who presided over the function.
Welcoming the students, Dr. Ramdas G. Biradar, Director – Outreach & Admissions & Head, First Year Engineering, highlighted PCET's rich educational legacy, state–of–the–art infrastructure, dedicated faculty, research ecosystem, and industry–focused learning. He encouraged students to make the most of the opportunities available at PCU and build a strong foundation for their careers.
Dr. Shitalkumar Rawandale, Advisor, PCU, emphasized the importance of continuous skill development, critical thinking, industry exposure, internships, certifications, and emerging technologies. He motivated students to prepare themselves for the vision of Viksit Bharat by staying connected with industry and embracing lifelong learning.
Addressing the gathering, Dr. Santosh S. Sonawane, Vice Chancellor, PCU, welcomed the fourth batch of engineering students and highlighted the University's industry–driven curriculum, international collaborations, foreign language learning opportunities, and upcoming Centres of Excellence. He encouraged students to cultivate innovation, ethics, and global competencies throughout their academic journey.
In his keynote address, Mr. K. Venkatesan inspired students to take ownership of their future by mastering engineering fundamentals, strengthening problem–solving abilities, leveraging Artificial Intelligence and Generative AI as learning tools, and actively pursuing research, internships, entrepreneurship, and innovation to create meaningful societal impact.
Sharing his insights, Dr. Vijay Suryawanshi, IAS, appreciated the University's world–class infrastructure and encouraged students to maintain discipline, participate in sports and extracurricular activities, build strong professional networks, and make the most of every opportunity during their engineering education.
In his presidential address, Shri. Harshwardhan S. Patil reaffirmed PCET's commitment to delivering quality, merit-based education through world–class facilities, advanced laboratories, robotics and semiconductor initiatives, international language programmes, industry partnerships, and a vibrant campus environment. He encouraged students to remain humble, work diligently, and contribute meaningfully to society while making their families proud.
The programme concluded with a photo session and the distribution of the student reference manual, providing students with a memorable and inspiring start to their engineering journey at Pimpri Chinchwad University.
