The graduation of the Academy of Interdisciplinary Studies Class of 2024 was celebrated at this year’s  HKUST Congregation across three sessions at Shaw Auditorium this November.

The morning session on November 23 began with the conferment of honorary degrees and the presentation of Academic Achievement Medals to nine outstanding AIS graduates by AIS Dean Prof. QU Huamin.

T&M-DDP graduate Srijan SAXENA delivered an inspiring address, said "At HKUST, I had the unique opportunity to pursue excellence in both engineering and business through the Dual Degree Program in Technology and Management. Through hands-on corporate projects and expert guidance by our professors, we were equipped with the skills and confidence necessary to tackle complex challenges and innovate solutions in the real world."

The spotlight turned to our PhD graduates in the afternoon session, where they were hooded by their advisers or AIS faculty members.

On November 30, the Shaw Auditorium once again filled with excitement as our graduates and their guests gathered for the presentation of master’s and bachelor’s degrees from our Divisions.

This final session commenced with a heartfelt message from Prof. Qu: “By embracing an interdisciplinary perspective that transcends boundaries, we can synthesize and integrate various disciplines, empowering us to address these challenges meaningfully and navigate the complexities of today’s society.”

Following the Dean’s address, Class of 2024 graduates were presented on stage, including MPhil in Atmospheric Environmental Science (AES), MPhil in Environmental Science, Policy and Management (ESPM), MPhil in Individualized Interdisciplinary Program (IIP), MPhil in Public Policy (PP), Master of Public Management (MPM), Master of Public Policy (MPP), MSc in Environmental Science and Management (EVSM), BSc in Environmental Management and Technology (EVMT) and BSc in Individualized Interdisciplinary Major (IIM).

Graduate representatives Aditi DEODHAR (EVSM) and Irene CHEUNG (IIM) delivered the valedictory speeches. 

Aditi reflected her journey empowered by interdisciplinary thinking, “We have been challenged to ask bold questions and seek solutions that transcend traditional boundaries. Whether in group projects, class discussions, or research, we have learned that true progress comes from integrating ideas across disciplines.”

Irene encouraged the Class of 2024 by quoting Ella Fitzgerald, the Queen of Jazz, “Just don't give up trying to do what you really want to do. Where there is love and inspiration, I don't think you can go wrong.”

The celebrations concluded with joyous photos taken at Shaw Auditorium and LT-L, followed by a reception where the Class of 2024 received commemorative souvenirs as they prepared for their next chapter. Congratulations to our Class of 2024! We wish you all the best in your future endeavors!