- The announcement was made during GIM’s Founder Fr. Romuald D’Souza’s 100th Birth Anniversary Celebration
- Hon’ble Governor of Assam, Shri Pusapati Ashok Gajapathi Raju, and Former Deputy Chairman of the Planning Commission of India, Dr. Montek Singh Ahluwalia, graced the event as Chief Guests
GOA, 20th December 2025: Goa Institute of Management (GIM) marked the 100th birth anniversary of its Founder, Fr. Romuald D’Souza, today, 20th December 2025, with the launch of a long-term financial and strategic framework aimed at strengthening GIM’s academic priorities, student support systems and mission-driven initiatives. Launched with Rs. 5 crores in commitments, the endowment is well-positioned to reach its Rs. 20 crore first-phase target, reflecting the determination and generosity of GIM’s ambitious alumni base of 7,000.
Shri Pusapati Ashok Gajapathi Raju, Hon’ble Governor of Goa, and Dr. Montek Singh Ahluwalia, Former Deputy Chairman of the Planning Commission of India, graced the event as the Chief Guests. Other dignitaries including Mr. Ashank Desai, Chairman of the Board of Governors; Prof. Ajit Parulekar, Director; distinguished alumni; faculty; staff; and students of the GIM community, participated in the commemorative proceedings.
The formal event started with the screening of a short film capturing GIM’s journey and the visionary leadership of Fr. D’Souza that has significantly contributed to management education in India. The film provided a reminder of the values and principles on which the Institute was built.
Welcoming the guests, Prof. Ajit Parulekar, Director, GIM, said, “As we commemorate Fr. Romuald D’Souza’s 100th birth anniversary, we reaffirm our commitment to carrying forward his vision and strengthening GIM as an institution that shapes responsible leaders for society. His values are not just part of our history; they are part of our daily work. His commitment to excellence drives us even today as we continue to build an institution that stands for quality and impact.”
The event began with the unveiling of the Wall of Fame by Dr. Montek Singh Ahluwalia at the newly inaugurated office block on the campus.
This was followed by the unveiling of a specially commissioned bust of Fr. Romuald D’Souza, done by Hon’ble chief guest Shri Pusapati Ashok Gajapathi Raju, at the Fr. Romuald D'Souza Auditorium, creating a permanent tribute to his memory.
Reflecting on GIM’s journey, Mr. Ashank Desai, Chairman of the Board of Governors, GIM, highlighted the Institute’s unwavering focus on excellence, innovation, and nation-building, and acknowledged Fr. D’Souza’s foresight in creating an institution anchored in values, vitality, and social responsibility.
During his presiding address, Shri Pusapati Ashok Gajapathi Raju, Hon’ble Governor of Goa, said, “GIM is a living reminder that leadership must be rooted in responsibility, sustainability, and empathy. Fr. Romuald D’Souza believed institutions are shaped not by brick and mortar alone, but by people, values, and purpose. Leadership is not measured by the positions we hold, but by the lives we touch and the courage we display in difficult moments. The greatest tribute we can pay him is to carry forward his values and embrace leadership as a moral calling.”
During the event, Dr. Prathap Das, Regional Head – Asia Pacific, AACSB, formally handed over the AACSB Accreditation Certificate to Prof. Ajit Parulekar, marking a significant milestone in GIM’s global academic standing.
During his keynote address, Dr. Montek Singh Ahluwalia, Former Deputy Chairman of the Planning Commission of India, said, “You have made Father proud. It is a matter of great satisfaction to see an institution like GIM mobilising resources through the commitment of its alumni. This is a national service. The challenges facing institutions today—from geopolitical uncertainty and climate change to rapid technological disruption—require flexible systems and responsible leadership. Institutions like GIM can play a critical role in preparing leaders who are capable of navigating this complex future.”
The closing event witnessed distinguished alumni felicitation by the Hon’ble Chief Guests. These included:
· GIM Alumni Award for Social Impact- 2025
Mr. Ram Kolavennu, Alumnus, 1998 Batch, PGDM Core
· Honourable Mention for Social Impact – 2025
Mr. Rajesh A. R., Alumnus, 1999 Batch, PGDM Core
This event stands as a testament to Fr. Romuald D’Souza’s legacy and GIM’s commitment to fostering principled leadership and academic excellence
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