IIT Kanpur Class of 1986 pledges ₹11 crore for campus development projects

The Indian Institute of Technology Kanpur’s Class of 1986 has pledged ₹11 crore to fund three major campus projects, marking a significant act of alumni philanthropy during their 40-year reunion from Dec 18 to 21.

Alumni from India and abroad returned to campus to reconnect and contribute to initiatives aimed at enhancing student life.

The donation will support the SAC Extension Auditorium, the Centre for Mental Health and Wellbeing, and a new tower in the Hall of Residence.

These projects are intended to expand student activity spaces, strengthen mental health resources, and improve residential infrastructure.

The alumni batch said the initiatives were selected to meet the evolving needs of the student community and to create a lasting legacy.

IIT Kanpur Director Professor Manindra Agrawal, an alumnus of the Class of 1986, said the institute shaped both the professional and personal lives of its students.

He added that the batch’s pledge reflects a strong sense of responsibility. “These initiatives will directly support students’ academic, cultural, and emotional needs,” he said.

Prof Amey Karkare, Dean of Resources and Alumni, highlighted the importance of the contribution for long-term campus development.

“The Class of 1986 has set a strong example of collective giving. Their pledge will significantly support student-focused infrastructure,” he said, noting that alumni-led philanthropy has been crucial in building infrastructure and supporting student programs over the years.

Coordinator Ajit Dass said the reunion offered an opportunity to give back. He added that the group hoped the projects would enhance campus life and benefit future generations of students.

The reunion included campus tours, interactive sessions, and discussions on ways alumni can continue supporting IIT Kanpur.

Many participants emphasized the need for improved mental health support and expanded activity spaces.

The batch expressed confidence that the projects would make a measurable difference for current and future students.

Established in 1959, IIT Kanpur is recognized as an Institute of National Importance and is renowned for its engineering and science programs.

The campus spans over 1,000 acres and hosts more than 9,500 students across engineering, science, humanities, management, and design disciplines.

With over 570 full-time faculty members, the institute continues to expand its research and industry partnerships.

The Class of 1986’s contribution is expected to accelerate the development of the new projects, with construction and implementation planned in phases.

Alumni representatives said they will continue to engage with the institute and support initiatives that benefit students.