PGPM Batch Commencement
PGPM 2025–26 Commencement Program
Great Lakes Institute of Management, Gurgaon, welcomed the 14th Post Graduate Diploma in Management (PGPM) cohort at its Commencement Ceremony on May 17, 2025. The diverse batch embarks on a transformative journey, with the event graced by Chief Guest Mr. Vikramjeet Singh, Partner at PwC. The ceremony began with the traditional lamp-lighting, symbolizing enlightenment.
Welcome Address by Dr. Vikas Prakash, Program Director – PGPM
Dr. Vikas warmly welcomed the new PGPM cohort, encouraging them to view the year ahead as a transformative journey. He urged students to embrace uncertainty, overcome the fear of making mistakes, and nurture a constant sense of curiosity. Highlighting the pillars of effective learning, he spoke about the importance of discipline, inclusivity, and collaboration. Rather than waiting for panic to drive action, Dr. Vikas stressed the value of starting early, staying consistent.
Naming the Batch: PGPM Class of 2026 – “The Invincibles”
Upholding the institute’s tradition, Dr. Jones Mathew, Principal & Head of Institution, formally named the incoming class as “The Invincibles”— a title reflecting the cohort’s anticipated role as change-makers, committed to driving innovation and sustainable impact across industries.
Keynote Address by the Chief Guest
Delivering the keynote address, Mr. Vikramjeet Singh offered valuable insights drawn from his corporate journey. He emphasized:
- The importance of personal well-being in maintaining long-term productivity.
- Ownership of one’s learning and active engagement in the classroom
- A client-centric approach grounded in empathy and trust
- The pursuit of excellence through calculated practice
- Building a personal brand anchored in integrity and accountability
He concluded with a poignant message: “You’ve paused your careers for growth—make this pause worth every second.”
Chairman’s Address
In his address, Mr. Mohan Lakhamraju, Chairman of Great Lakes Institute of Management, described the PGPM program as a blank canvas — an opportunity for students to paint their own unique journey. He encouraged them to:
- Be intentional and disciplined in your efforts
- Translate insights into meaningful action
- Take full responsibility for outcomes, especially in placement and career transitions
- View the PGPM as an opportunity for reinvention and growth
Vote of Thanks
The formal proceedings concluded with a vote of thanks by Dr. Poornima Gupta, Program Director – PGDM, followed by a solemn recitation of the National Anthem, symbolizing unity and shared purpose.
The commencement ceremony ended with a group photograph of the batch with the faculty.
Yoga and Mindfulness with Prof. S.K. Palhan
The cohort participated in a guided session on yoga and mindfulness on the 2nd day, led by Prof. S.K. Palhan. He also introduced the Karma Yoga Program, a signature Great Lakes initiative promoting community leadership and social responsibility through active engagement in nearby villages.
Alumni Connect: Learning from Experience
Mr. Siddhant Sinha (PGPM Co’2019), Product Leader at Amazon, delivered an inspiring session on his journey from campus to career. His address emphasized the importance of aligning purpose with performance and leveraging the Great Lakes alumni network for lifelong learning and collaboration.
Industry Insights: Guiding Career Journeys
As part of the Commencement Program, the new PGPM cohort had the privilege of engaging with industry leaders across key verticals. These sessions offered pragmatic insights into the world of business, helping students envision career pathways and prepare for industry transitions.
How to build a career in Sales & Marketing?
Mr. Vikas Gandhi emphasized that mastering marketing begins with understanding sales, as it offers direct consumer insights, aids strategic execution, and supports long-term customer relationships.
- By Vikas Gandhi, President & Business Head, Livguard Energy Technologies Private Limited (SAR Group)
How to build a career in Consulting?
Mr. Misal from KPMG stressed that successful consultants must be adaptable, build personal rapport with clients, and use structured approaches like STAR to communicate effectively during interviews.
- By Misal, Director & Head - Campus Hiring, KPMG India
How Young Professionals Can Navigate Their Careers Wisely in Today’s Evolving Industry Landscape?
Mr. Vineet Nagpal introduced frameworks like PULL (Purpose, Understand, Love, Let go) and S-E-W (Sustainable, Enjoyable, Well-being) to guide students toward long-term, fulfilling career paths—especially within the booming GCC sector.
- By Vineet Nagpal, Head - CCS Acceleration Center, CSC
Fulcrum to Pivoting Your Career
Mr. Anand Shankar highlighted the power of compounding knowledge and self-leadership, urging students to become exemplars by mastering a skill, constantly evolving, and making their growth visible and impactful.
- By Anand Shankar, Chief Strategy and Transformation Officer, Deloitte South Asia
Celebrating Diversity: Talent Evening
The induction program concluded with a Talent Evening, showcasing a wide range of student performances — music, dance, poetry, and stand-up — encouraging fellowship and celebrating the diverse backgrounds and talents of the new cohort.
