In a powerful display of gratitude and commitment, the 1986 graduating class of the Indian Institute of Technology, Kanpur (IIT-K), has pledged a monumental collective donation of Rs 11 Crore to their alma mater. The landmark pledge was announced during the batch's 40th-year reunion, a grand event that saw alumni from around the world reconvene on campus from December 18 to 21.
A Legacy of Giving Back: Three Pillar Projects
The substantial financial commitment is earmarked for three specific legacy initiatives designed to enhance student life and institutional infrastructure. The funds will directly support the construction and development of the SAC Extension Auditorium, a dedicated Centre for Mental Health and Wellbeing, and a new tower in the New Hall of Residence. These projects were carefully chosen to address holistic student development, focusing on cultural engagement, emotional support, and community living.
This strategic allocation reflects the batch's deep-seated desire to create lasting value for current and future generations of IIT-K students. By targeting student wellbeing, community spaces, and accommodation, the 1986 alumni aim to fortify the very ecosystem that shaped their own careers and lives.
Leadership Hails a Remarkable Example of Alumni Philanthropy
Prof. Manindra Agrawal, the Director of IIT Kanpur and a proud member of the 1986 batch, expressed immense pride in his classmates' initiative. He highlighted the institute's defining role in their lives and commended the collective effort to impact students' academic, cultural, and emotional journeys. The sentiment of responsibility and gratitude was a recurring theme.
Echoing this appreciation, Prof. Amey Karkare, Dean of Resources and Alumni at IIT-K, stated that the Class of 1986 has set a remarkable benchmark for alumni leadership. He emphasized that such legacy gifts accelerate campus development and reinforce the enduring bond between the institute and its global alumni network. The Rs 11 Crore pledge is seen as a critical investment in student-centric infrastructure.
Batch Perspective: A Shared Desire for Lasting Impact
Sharing the batch's collective vision, Ajit Dass, the 1986 alumni batch coordinator, explained that the decision stemmed from a unified wish to give back meaningfully. The selected legacy projects are not just structures but symbols of the batch's gratitude and their hope to positively influence the IIT-K experience for decades to come.
The reunion itself was a vibrant mix of nostalgia, camaraderie, and forward-looking commitment. Beyond the celebrations, it culminated in this significant philanthropic announcement, underscoring how IIT Kanpur's alumni continue to engage with and propel their institute's mission long after graduation.
