Nandan Nilekani, co-founder and non-executive chairman of Infosys, celebrated 50 years of his association with the Indian Institute of Technology Bombay (IIT-B) in grand style.
It was the highest donation ever made by a former student to his alma mater. Nilekani has contributed an additional Rs 85 crore to the institution’s advancement in the past, bringing his total contribution to Rs 400 crore.
The institute’s department of public relations issued a statement stating that the funds will be used to promote world-class infrastructure, enhance the quality of engineering and technology research, and foster a startup ecosystem at the institute.
Praising Nilekani’s contribution, Prof Chaudhuri said, “We are extremely delighted to see our illustrious alumnus Nandan Nilekani continuing his foundational and pioneering contributions to the Institute. This historic donation will significantly accelerate the growth of IIT Bombay and will firmly set it on a path of global leadership. IIT Bombay is committed to building research and academic excellence that can make India a leader in scientific discovery and its translation towards solving the pressing challenges facing humankind. Nandan’s contribution will catalyse philanthropic contributions towards advancing research & development at universities in India.”
Nilekani, who has always been affiliated with the institute in some capacity or another, lavished the institution with praise. He said, “IIT Bombay has been a cornerstone in my life, shaping my formative years and laying the foundation for my journey. As I celebrate 50 years of my association with this esteemed Institution, I am grateful to give forward and contribute to its future. This donation is more than just a financial contribution; it is a tribute to the place that has given me so much and a commitment to the students who will shape our world tomorrow.”
Here are some of the positions Nilekani has held in the past:
1) Board member of the IIT Bombay Heritage Foundation from 1999 to 2009
2) Part of the Board of Governors from 2005 to 2011
Among his other achievements, he was also conferred with the prestigious Distinguished Alumnus Award in 1999, and an Honorary Doctorate in 2019 at the 57th convocation of the institute.
