Chennai: The Indian Institute of Technology Madras (IIT Madras) on Saturday held its Convocation and Certificate Distribution Ceremony for students enrolled in its BS Degree programmes in Data Science and Applications and Electronic Systems. The event marked the graduation of 867 students, including the first cohort to complete the four-year BS degree.

More than 38,000 learners are currently enrolled in these online programmes from across India and abroad. Significantly, over 52% are pursuing the degree alongside another undergraduate programme, reflecting its flexibility and appeal.

Congratulating the graduating batch, IIT Madras Director Prof. V. Kamakoti said the initiative was part of the institute's vision of 'IITM for All.' “This is a significant step towards the democratisation of education, supporting the vision of Viksit Bharat 2047,” he said, highlighting that around 150 graduates come from families with an annual income below ₹1 lakh.

Notably, BS Data Science students secured three of the top 10 ranks in the GATE Data Science and AI exam, with the topper being an MBBS doctor from AIIMS Delhi.

Prof. Andrew Thangaraj, Coordinator of the BS programme, noted that learners from remote villages to global cities have benefitted. “We are shaping a generation of data-literate problem solvers,” he said.

Chief Guest Aravind Krishnan, MD, Blackstone, lauded the programme's role in making data science education accessible, adding that the ability to draw insights from complexity is among today's most valuable skills.

The programme's structure allows for multiple exit points, with certifications ranging from diplomas to full degrees. Learners span ages 18 to 80, with 8% aged above 30, reinforcing that learning has no age bar. Over 10,000 students from low-income families receive 75% scholarships, and nearly 5,000 study for free through CSR support.