Shri Ram College of Commerce (SRCC) formally launched its centenary celebrations recently. The inaugural event took place on Delhi University’s North Campus. Delhi University Vice-Chancellor Prof Yogesh Singh presided as the chief guest. Ajay S Shriram, Chairman of the SRCC Governing Body, also attended the curtain-raiser.
A Century of Academic Excellence
Vice-Chancellor Singh lauded SRCC as a “globally recognised academic brand.” He stated that the premier commerce college’s contributions extend significantly beyond mere academic rankings. Singh underscored the profound impact SRCC has made over its impressive 100-year history.
“A hundred years is long enough to build institutions, shape generations and influence the journey of a nation,” Singh remarked. He added, “SRCC has done all three.” This statement highlights the college’s role in national development and human resource shaping.
Singh also articulated a vision for the future role of institutions like SRCC. He emphasized their responsibility to cultivate leaders capable of creating new enterprises. These leaders, he specified, should prioritize innovation over simply joining existing companies. Singh further defined leadership as a fundamental moral responsibility.
From Vision to Global Recognition
The celebratory event commenced with a tribute to the institution’s founder. Attendees offered a floral tribute to industrialist Sir Shri Ram. He established SRCC in the 1920s, initially naming it The Commercial School . The original aim was to foster indigenous business leadership during India’s pre-Independence era.
A significant highlight of the event was the release of a commemorative coffee table book. Titled Timeless Frames , the book documents SRCC’s comprehensive journey. It traces its origins from Daryaganj to its current status. Today, SRCC stands as a globally recognised centre of excellence for commerce and economics education.
SRCC Principal Simrit Kaur delivered a speech reflecting on the college’s core values. She affirmed, “For a hundred years, SRCC has stood for purpose over profit and ethics over expediency.” This principle has consistently guided the college’s educational philosophy and institutional practices.
Year-Long Centenary Program
The formal launch initiated a year-long program of centenary celebrations. This extensive schedule includes various academic conclaves and policy dialogues. It will also feature numerous alumni engagements, fostering connections among past and present students. Plans are also underway for significant global collaborations.
These diverse activities will involve key stakeholders. Academic leaders, policymakers, and distinguished alumni are all expected to participate. The program aims to reflect on SRCC’s past achievements and chart its future trajectory in higher education.
Vice-Chancellor Singh emphasized SRCC’s continued relevance in India’s economic landscape. He pointed to the nation’s rapid progress towards becoming a USD 4 trillion economy . Singh stressed the vital role of institutions like SRCC in nurturing world-class economists, innovative entrepreneurs, and influential policy thinkers.
The curtain-raiser event attracted a number of high-profile former students. Notable alumni in attendance included Sangeeta Jaitley, Justice A K Sikri, Sunit Sethi, Sminu Jindal, Vijay Goel, and Neeraj Ghei. Their presence underscored the wide professional impact of SRCC graduates across various sectors.