NIIT University (NU) has announced the appointment of Shri Amitabh Kant, former CEO of NITI Aayog and India’s G20 Sherpa, as its new Chairperson (Chancellor), effective March 10, 2025. His appointment marks a new phase in the university’s commitment to fostering industry-aligned education and skill development. Shri Kant succeeds the esteemed scientist Shri K Kasturirangan, whose tenure contributed significantly to the institution’s growth and reputation.
A Strategic Leadership Transition
NIIT University, established to revolutionize higher education and foster innovation in emerging fields, considers this leadership transition a crucial milestone. Shri Amitabh Kant’s vast experience in policy-making, economic transformation, and technology-driven innovation is expected to further enhance NU’s focus on developing future-ready talent and strengthening collaborations between academia and industry.
During his tenure as CEO of NITI Aayog from 2016 to 2022, Shri Kant played a pivotal role in launching and implementing several transformative initiatives. These include the Atal Innovation Mission, the Aspirational Districts Programme, and the National Programme on Artificial Intelligence, all of which have contributed to India’s economic and technological progress. Additionally, he was instrumental in the success of flagship programs like Make in India, Startup India, and the Ease of Doing Business reforms, each aimed at promoting entrepreneurship, skill development, and industrial growth. His leadership in India’s G20 Presidency in 2023 further cemented India’s position in global economic policymaking.
Commitment to Innovation and Skilling
Expressing his enthusiasm about joining NIIT University, Shri Kant highlighted the importance of academic institutions in preparing students for the evolving economic and technological landscape. “It is an honour to join NIIT University, an institution that has consistently pioneered industry-linked education and skilling. In today’s rapidly evolving economy, universities must play a central role in nurturing innovation and preparing youth for emerging opportunities. I look forward to working with the university to advance its mission of creating a new-age talent pool aligned with national and global priorities,” he stated.
NIIT University has established itself as a leader in integrating academia with industry needs, boasting partnerships with over 700 industry entities, including prominent organizations such as IBM, Tata Consultancy Services, Morgan Stanley, and Deloitte. These collaborations have contributed to a 100% placement record for NU students, reaffirming the university’s commitment to employability and real-world readiness.
Leadership’s Perspective
Welcoming Shri Kant to his new role, Prof. Prakash Gopalan, President of NIIT University, remarked, “We are privileged to welcome Shri Amitabh Kant as Chairperson of NIIT University. His visionary leadership in driving India’s innovation and skilling landscape will be invaluable in shaping NU’s future. As we continue to strengthen our focus on technology, research, and industry integration, his guidance will help us take significant strides in developing a highly skilled, future-ready workforce.”
At the same time, NIIT University extended its heartfelt gratitude to Shri K Kasturirangan for his exemplary leadership and contributions. Under his guidance, the university strengthened its reputation as a centre for industry-aligned education, research, and innovation.