Krishna Chivukula, who made the single-largest donation to his alma mater IIT-Madras, believes that education at Indian Institutes of Technology (IITs) should focus on what is relevant for the nation’s growth over the next three to four decades, instead of what is relevant to the US.
He argues that IITs have been export-led for a large part because the graduates found better opportunities abroad. This is evident in his own journey, as he left India to pursue his career after graduating from IIT Madras. However, he believes that the shifting global economic landscape necessitates a change in focus.
“But now, the centre of gravity of growth of the world economy is shifting to Asia and especially to India. India is going to grow very rapidly,” he said. “IITs themselves and the student bodies of IITs should focus more on what is relevant for India in terms of education and growth because India is not a highly developed economy in several spheres.”
Chivukula, who donated ₹ 228 crore to IIT-Madras, emphasized the need for IITs to harness their brilliance and develop solutions tailored to India’s specific needs. He believes that IITs should prioritize education and research that addresses the challenges and opportunities facing India.
The donation, one of the largest to any educational institution in India, highlights the importance of private philanthropy in supporting higher education. It also underscores the growing recognition of the role that IITs can play in driving India’s economic and social progress.
Chivukula’s views resonate with the increasing focus on building a strong domestic talent pool in India. As the country continues to grow, there is a need for highly skilled professionals who can contribute to its development. IITs, with their reputation for excellence, have the potential to play a pivotal role in this endeavor.
“IITs should focus for the next 30-40 years on what is relevant for India’s growth instead of what is relevant for America’s growth!” he asserted, underscoring the need for a paradigm shift in the approach to education at IITs.
Chivukula’s donation and his views on the future of IITs are a testament to the increasing role of philanthropy in shaping the landscape of higher education in India. It also highlights the need for a proactive approach to addressing the specific needs of the nation’s development. As India embarks on a new era of growth, IITs have the opportunity to play a pivotal role in building a brighter future for the country.
