Chennai: Loyola College (Autonomous) here on Wednesday held its 97th convocation ceremony, with a total of 3,120 students graduating across disciplines.

Of the total graduates, 2,558 students received their degrees in person at the open-air auditorium in the Jubilee Building, while degrees were awarded in absentia to 562 candidates.

Former Supreme Court judge Kurian Joseph, who was the chief guest, delivered the convocation address, urging students to uphold responsibility and ethical values as they step into society.

“Today, you step out not as students seeking answers, but as responsible citizens accepting responsibilities,” he said, adding that urgency in addressing injustice must be guided by discipline and principles.

Highlighting his judicial experience, he said constitutional values require calm and firm thought, and emphasised that institutions derive strength from the conscience of individuals.

The ceremony began with an academic procession led by college authorities, including Rector Rev J Antony Robinson and Principal Rev A Louis Arakiyaraj, and was attended by faculty members, academicians, alumni and parents.

As many as 54 undergraduate and postgraduate students were awarded gold medals. The college also reported that 74 postgraduate students cleared NET/SET, 625 secured employment, 74 became self-employed, and 826 opted for higher studies.

Established in 1925, Loyola College is a premier institution offering arts, science and commerce education.