The School of Branding & Advertising (SoBA), SVKM’s NMIMS (Deemed-to-be University), celebrated its graduating BBA (Branding & Advertising) cohort at the Degree Distribution Ceremony 2026, bringing together students, faculty members, parents and industry leaders to mark the transition of young graduates from academic life to the professional world.
The ceremony was graced by Shashi Sinha, veteran advertising and media leader and former Chairman & CEO of IPG Mediabrands. With nearly four decades of experience in India’s advertising and media industry, Sinha has played a significant role in shaping the country’s evolving marketing ecosystem. He is also the recipient of the AAAI Lifetime Achievement Award 2023 and continues to engage with developments across advertising, branding and media.
Addressing the graduating students, Sinha spoke about the growing role of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and technology in the advertising industry. While acknowledging the transformative potential of technology, he stressed that future advertisers must maintain a balance between technological capabilities and human understanding.
Referring to the concept of “Heart and Science,” Sinha encouraged students to recognise the importance of human emotion and intuition alongside data, technology and analytical thinking. He urged the next generation of advertising professionals to remain connected to everyday life and culture, pointing out that advertising ultimately draws inspiration from the world around us.
Sinha also highlighted the importance of collaboration in developing effective ideas. According to him, bringing together people with different experiences, perspectives and skills can lead to stronger creative solutions and more meaningful outcomes. His message underlined the importance of remaining curious, observant and open to different viewpoints in an industry that is constantly evolving.
The ceremony also witnessed the presentation of degrees and scrolls to the graduating students. Dr. Kiran Desai, Director, NMIMS School of Branding & Advertising, was present at the event. The Dean’s List, SoBA Excellence Awards and Faculty Awards were also presented to recognise academic achievement and excellence among students and faculty members.
Dr. Kiran Desai said that SoBA’s learning approach is designed to encourage young students to pursue their ambitions while developing practical skills. She highlighted the institution’s focus on experiential learning, which goes beyond traditional classroom-based education.
“Our learning design aims to inspire all young dreamers who want to follow their dreams. We go beyond traditional knowledge delivery by integrating practical and experiential learning into every course. This approach cultivates the development of strategically sound, innovative and relevant media elements that are instrumental in crafting successful brand campaigns,” she said.
Adding another industry-focused element to the ceremony, SoBA also unveiled “The Decision Point – Marketing Dilemmas for the Boardroom and the Classroom.” The book explores contemporary marketing challenges and the decision-making processes involved in addressing them.
Shashi Sinha unveiled the book alongside its editors, Dr. Kiran Desai, Director, NMIMS School of Branding & Advertising, and Dr. Rishika Bhojwani, Assistant Professor, NMIMS SoBA.
The Degree Distribution Ceremony reflected SoBA’s focus on connecting academic learning with real-world industry perspectives. As the graduates begin their professional journeys, the event highlights the importance of combining creativity, technology, human insight and collaboration in the future of advertising, branding and communications.
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