Convocation Speeches

I went to my friend's convocation yesterday at the University of Calgary. László Lovász, a world leading "Graph Theorist" was the guest of honour. He is from Hungary and worked in Harvard and MIT and the likes. He is at present in Microsoft research. An amazing personality, he talked about how mathematics is important in everyday life and no one should be afraid of it.

László Lovász

His main interests are Graph theory and complexity of information. He went on to talk about his life behind the Iron curtain and under authoritarian regimes, and how freedom and democracy are important for growth of science, couldn't agree more.

Speaking of Convocation speakers, While I was going to school in Indian School of Mines, the Guest of Honour was no other than Abdul Kalam, the present president of India. He was then chief scientific advisor to the Prime Minister of India. He flew in an Indian Air Force chetak Helicopter, and landed in our ground near by. He stepped out of his helicopter with his trademark smile.

President Abdul Kalam

His speech was absolutely brilliant. He recited verses from Bhagvadgita and quoted Tiruvalluvar, his favourite Tamil poet. He wanted the young engineers and scientists graduating to work for the progress of India.

Well, Sorry President sir, I have always been a disappointment.