IIST observed Ambedkar Jayanti on 21st April 2026, to honour the 135th birth anniversary of Bharat Ratna Dr B.R. Ambedkar. The campus came together to pay tribute to the visionary social reformer, jurist, and the principal architect of the Indian Constitution. 

The celebration commenced with a floral tribute to Dr Ambedkar, followed by the welcome speech by Prof. Dipankar Banerjee, Vice Chancellor, IIST. In his speech, he emphasised the enduring relevance of Dr Ambedkar’s philosophy in today’s life. He specifically focused on the concepts of sensitivity and individual responsibility, urging the IIST community to embody these traits in their daily lives.

Dr. Joseph Antony, Professor at Mar Gregorios College of Law and former Head of the Department of Political Science at the University of Kerala, served as the Chief Guest and delivered the distinguished lecture. In his lecture, titled "Ambedkarite Idea of Democratising Indian Democracy," Prof. Joseph Antony provided an expansive look at Ambedkar’s multifaceted legacy. He detailed the critical distinctions between political, social, and economic democracy, emphasising that for Ambedkar, democracy was not merely a mechanical process of voting but a mode of associated living. He stressed that a truly inclusive democracy requires the active implementation of constitutional morality to prevent the erosion of democratic institutions. He concluded his address with a call to action rooted in Ambedkar’s vision for the modern Indian - to strive to become "Prabhudha", move away from devotional inebriation and develop a scientific temper for solving issues.

Prof. Kuruvilla Joseph, Pro-Vice Chancellor, IIST, addressed the gathering. He remarked that the legacy of Dr B.R. Ambedkar extends beyond legislative frameworks into the realm of personal conduct. He opined that true homage to Ambedkar requires individuals to internalise the principles of democracy not merely as a political system, but as a lived philosophy characterised by liberty, equality, and fraternity.

Continuing the commemoration, Prof. Subrahamanian K.S. Moosath, Dean (Student Activities), addressed the gathering, focusing on the vital pillar of fraternity championed by Dr Ambedkar. Shri Satish Kumar V proposed the vote of thanks, and the programme ended with the National Anthem.

As part of the celebrations, an elocution competition was conducted for the students on 23 April 2026. Mr. Dipanshu Kumar (B.Tech Aerospace Engineering), Mr. Bhushan Vinayanand Mohod (B.Tech Aerospace Engineering), and Mr. Aryan Gujral (B.Tech Electronics & Communication Engineering.) bagged the first, second, and third prizes, respectively.