Lebih 1600 orang lulusan ITM akan melangkah gagah di Dewan Seri Budiman pada 11 dan 12 Oktober 1980 ini menerima anugerah dari Pengerusi Majlis ITM, YB Datuk Mansor Othman. Dengan Konvokesyen ke 20 ini bererti ITM telah pun melahirkan hampir 15 ribu orang lulusan. Umur ITM sendiri menjangkau 25 tahun.
Dengan penubuhan RIDA yang mengambil 25 orang pelajar untuk peperiksaan LCC, maka bandingkanlah pula dengan penghasilan lebih 1600 orang graduan tahun ini. Tidak dapat diragukan lagi bahawa geraf kelahiran graduan terus meningkat setiap tahun. Tema Konvokesyen kali ini ialah 'Berusaha Ke arah Kecemerlangan'. Tema ini menekankan kepada kesungguhan para lulusan mencapai kecemerlangan ilmu. Bagaimanapun, mereka diingatkan bahawa kecemerlangan juga melibatkan kesediaan mereka menerjunkan diri ke alam kerjaya yang penuh mencabar baik di pihak kerajaan, swasta mahupun pada usaha berdikari, tanpa perlu bersandar pada alam kehidupan makan gaji.
Rujukan:
Tema Konvo Oktober 80: BERUSAHA KE ARAH KECEMERLANGAN (Bil. 49/50 September/Oktober 1980). Warta ITM, p. 1.
"This memorable graduation ceremony reflected a significant milestone in the institution's development, celebrating both its growing legacy and the achievements of its graduates. Held during the university's 25th anniversary, the occasion highlighted the remarkable progress made since its early years, demonstrating how a small educational initiative had grown into a respected institution producing thousands of qualified graduates. The event honoured the dedication, perseverance, and academic accomplishments of students who had successfully completed their studies and were preparing to begin new chapters in their professional lives. It also reinforced the importance of lifelong learning, personal excellence, and the responsibility graduates carry as future contributors to national development. Beyond recognizing academic success, the ceremony encouraged graduates to embrace challenges with confidence, whether pursuing careers in the public sector, private industry, or entrepreneurial ventures. The celebration served as a reminder that education extends beyond obtaining a qualification, inspiring graduates to apply their knowledge, uphold strong values, and make meaningful contributions to society. This historic occasion remains an enduring symbol of institutional growth, educational achievement, and the continued commitment to developing capable and responsible future leaders."