Former NITI Aayog CEO Amitabh Kant appointed chairperson of NIIT University

NIIT University (NU) on Wednesday said it has appointed Amitabh Kant, the former chief executive of government policy think tank NITI Aayog, as its chairperson (chancellor), effective March 10, 2025. Kant takes charge from scientist K Kasturirangan.

At Niti Aayog, Kant spearheaded pioneering initiatives like the Atal Innovation Mission, Aspirational Districts Programme, and the National Programme on Artificial Intelligence.

"It is an honour to join NIIT University, an institution that has consistently pioneered industry-linked education and skilling," Kant said. “In today’s rapidly evolving economy, universities must play a central role in nurturing innovation and preparing youth for emerging opportunities.”


NIIT University has partnerships with more than 700 industry entities, including IBM, Tata Consultancy Services, Morgan Stanley and Deloitte. "These collaborations have been instrumental in ensuring 100% placement for NU students since its inception, underlining the university's commitment to employability and real-world readiness," according to the press release from the university.

"As we continue to strengthen our focus on technology, research and industry integration, his (Kant) guidance will help us take significant strides in developing a highly skilled, future-ready workforce," Prakash Gopalan, president of NIIT University, said.