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Alumni Day 2025 at SRMIST: Where Journeys Reconnect and Legacies ContinueSTAFF WRITERSRM Institute of Science and Technology (SRMIST) celebrated Alumni Day 2025 on 20th December 2025 at the Kattankulathur campus, bringing together over 1,200 alumni from across disciplines and campuses. The event reflected the institution%u2019s strong and enduring relationship with its graduates and their continuing role in carrying SRMIST%u2019s values into the wider world.Addressing the gathering, Dr. T. R. Paarivendhar, Founder Chancellor, highlighted the collective spirit behind SRM%u2019s growth. He noted that the institution did not grow because of one individual, but because every alumnus who passed through the campus carried its vision forward. His address emphasised the lasting impact of alumni contributions on SRMIST%u2019s progress and reputation.The Vice Chancellor reinforced this shared responsibility, encouraging alumni to stay closely connected with their alma mater. Alumni were invited to mentor students, contribute to teaching and professional development initiatives, and actively support innovation and entrepreneurship through DEI initiatives, where over 50 start-ups are currently thriving. They were also urged to engage with the university%u2019s career centre to guide and empower the next generation.Alumni Day 2025 featured reflective and inspiring accounts from former students who spoke about SRMIST%u2019s role in shaping their lives. Mr. Selvaraj Srinivasan of the 1991 batch shared his journey from a rural classroom to global platforms, crediting SRM for laying the foundation for his aspirations. Ms. Vino Supraja, an alumna of the 2001 batch and the first architect from Vandavasi, reflected on how the campus nurtured her confidence and personal growth. A key highlight of the celebration was the Alumni Awards Ceremony, which recognised outstanding alumni under three categories: Distinguished Alumni, Eminent Alumni, and Young Achievers. The awardees were honoured for their excellence, leadership, and contributions across industry, academia, entrepreneurship, and social service.SRMIST Signs MoU with Pon Pure Chemicals to Strengthen Industry%u2013Academia Collaboration in Specialised ChemistrySTAFF WRITERSRM Institute of Science and Technology (SRMIST) signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Pon Pure Chemicals Pvt. Ltd., Chennai, on 17 December 2025 to establish a Joint Laboratory for Oil-Field Chemical Product Development and Analytical Testing, with a special focus on drilling fluids and allied formulations. This initiative represents a first-of-itskind industry%u2013academia collaboration in India in the specialised area of oil-field chemicals.The proposed facility, titled the %u201cSRMIST%u2013Pon Pure Chemicals Lab,%u201d will be set up at the SRMIST main campus with an estimated equipment cost of ` 75 lakh. Pon Pure Chemicals will contribute ` 20 lakh through Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) funding, while SRMIST will support the remaining infrastructure requirements.The collaboration aims to promote applied research, encourage indigenous product development, and bridge the gap between academic research and industrial application in the oil and gas sector. Pon Pure Chemicals, with operations across India and a strong global presence, brings extensive industry expertise to the partnership. Prof. C. Muthamizhchelvan, ViceChancellor, SRMIST, highlighted that the partnership will enable industry-relevant research and skill development for students and faculty. Mr. Surya Prakash, Executive Director, Pon Pure Chemicals, emphasised the need for research-led innovation in oil-field chemistry and noted that the CSR-supported lab will help develop specialised expertise.SRMIST Founder Chancellor Dr.T.R.Paarivendhar felicitates the Alumni during the Alumni Reunion at SRMISTProf. C. Muthamizhchelvan, Vice Chancellor, SRM IST, along with Mr. Surya Prakash, Executive Director, Pon Pure Chemicals showcasing the MoU signed between SRMIST and Pon Pure Chemicals Pvt. Ltd in the presence of SRMIST Registrar Dr. S. Ponnusamy.26 2026 | Spectrum | Volume 19 Number 2