By AIT Public Affairs
2 August 2024: A new academic chapter has commenced at the Asian Institute of Technology (AIT), welcoming the largest intake of students since 2012. The August 2024 semester kicked off with a hybrid orientation event on August with 587 students. Three hundred twenty students attended the event in person, while the remainder joined online, marking this as one of the most significant and diverse groups in AIT’s recent history.
This semester, a total of 587 new students (534 regular and 53 special programs) from 29 countries across Asia, North America, Europe, and Africa embarked on a transformative academic journey. More students are expected through late enrolments. These students are enrolled in regular Master’s and Ph.D. programs, special programs, flexible programs, and exchange and visiting programs from partner institutions around the world. Demonstrating AIT’s commitment to diversity and equal representation, approximately 45% of regular students are women. Among the total admissions, 48% have joined the School of Engineering and Technology (SET), 28% the School of Environment, Resources, and Development (SERD), and 24% the School of Management (SOM). Currently, the institute hosts over 1700 students pursuing higher education from around the globe.
Welcoming new students from over 25 countries, AIT President Prof. Kazuo Yamamoto emphasized that AIT is a gateway to growth and discovery. He encouraged students to enjoy every moment and make the most of their opportunity. “Stay open-minded and relaxed, as creativity and innovation stem from real experiences. As future leaders, your journey here will empower you to make significant contributions to society,” he added.
Prof. Yamamoto urged everyone to embrace the digital age and its endless possibilities while valuing real-world exposure and understanding. He highlighted that at AIT, the student union signifies students as crucial stakeholders in the community, encouraging them to voice their opinions, engage in discussions, and share ideas fearlessly.
Prof. Yamamoto also introduced and welcomed AIT’s President-Designate, Prof. Pai Chi Li, who will assume office on September 1, 2024. In a video message, Prof. Li expressed immense pleasure in joining AIT and extended heartfelt thanks to President Yamamoto for his exceptional leadership. Prof. Li emphasized AIT as a hub of innovation and excellence, urging students to seize every opportunity, engage in interdisciplinary learning, and become ethical leaders and problem solvers. He highlighted the importance of transforming knowledge into action to tackle global challenges and drive progress. He looks forward to working with AIT’s dedicated faculty and staff to continue inspiring and empowering students.
Professor Nitin Kumar Tripathi, Acting Vice President for Academic Affairs, highlighted AIT’s mission to empower young professionals for sustainable development, urging students to seize the institute’s opportunities as the world seeks new leaders. Vice President for Administration, Mr. Russell Bruce Rein, emphasized the value of extracurricular engagement, real-world experiences, and respecting local customs. Welcoming remarks were also delivered by Prof. Sangam Shrestha, Dean of SET, Prof. Abdul Salam, Dean of SERD, and Prof. Yuosre Badir, Acting Dean of SOM.
Mr. Awaneendra Kishor Labh, AIT Student Union President for the August 2024 semester, motivated his peers to embrace the vibrant community, where they could create cherished memories, nurture friendships, and discover various opportunities for personal growth. He encouraged students to participate in social events and clubs, urging them to explore, engage, and make the most of their time at AIT.
Following the welcome remarks from the senior leadership, the students were briefed about the AIT’s harassment policy as well as activities at the Office of Sustainable Campus. They were further briefed by directors and staff of the respective units on academic requirements and practices, career center and student welfare, language center services, campus-wide IT services, and facilities management and accommodation policies.
The orientation laid a strong foundation for new students, arming them with essential insights and invigorating their enthusiasm as they embark on their transformative academic journey at AIT.
