Amitabh Kant Appointed Chairperson of NIIT University, Ushering a New Era of Innovation

NIIT University (NU) announces the appointment of Amitabh Kant, former CEO of NITI Aayog, as its new Chairperson (Chancellor), effective March 10, 2025 succeeding scientist Shri K Kasturirangan.

This transition marks a pivotal moment in NU’s journey toward strengthening its role as a leader in technology-driven and industry-focused higher education.

Shri Amitabh Kant, a distinguished policymaker and thought leader, has played a crucial role in India’s economic transformation. As CEO of NITI Aayog from 2016 to 2022, he was instrumental in launching key national initiatives, including the Atal Innovation Mission, the Aspirational Districts Programme, and the National Programme on Artificial Intelligence.

He also spearheaded transformative campaigns such as Make in India, Startup India, and Ease of Doing Business, all of which emphasize skill development and innovation.

His contributions to India’s G20 Presidency in 2023 further established the country’s influence in global economic affairs. His expertise in policy, innovation, and skill enhancement aligns seamlessly with NIIT University’s mission to shape future-ready professionals.

Sharing his thoughts on the new role, Shri Amitabh Kant stated, “I am honored to join NIIT University, an institution that has been at the forefront of industry-integrated learning. In today’s rapidly evolving economy, universities must take the lead in fostering innovation and preparing students for the dynamic job market. I look forward to contributing to NU’s vision of developing a highly skilled and globally competitive workforce.”

NIIT University has built a strong reputation for its deep industry collaborations, with over 700 corporate partnerships, including leading organizations like IBM, Tata Consultancy Services, Morgan Stanley, and Deloitte. These collaborations have enabled the university to maintain a 100% placement record since its inception, underscoring its commitment to employability and hands-on learning.

Welcoming Shri Kant, Prof. Prakash Gopalan, President of NIIT University, remarked, “We are delighted to have Shri Amitabh Kant as our Chairperson. His exceptional leadership in driving innovation, skilling, and economic reforms will be invaluable in shaping NU’s strategic direction. Under his guidance, we aim to further enhance our focus on research, technology, and industry integration, ensuring that our students are equipped for the opportunities of tomorrow.”

NIIT University also extends its sincere appreciation to Shri K Kasturirangan for his invaluable leadership and contributions. His vision helped establish NU as a center of excellence in industry-aligned education and research. As NU embarks on this new chapter under Shri Amitabh Kant’s leadership, the university is poised to achieve new milestones in cutting-edge learning, global partnerships, and talent development, reinforcing its commitment to nurturing the next generation of leaders and innovators.