UpGrad has inducted Amitabh Kant—former G20 Sherpa of India, former CEO of NITI Aayog, and one of the country’s most noted reform leaders—into its Board of Directors as an Independent Non-Executive Director.
This appointment aligns with upGrad’s vision for its next stage of expansion, with a strong focus on national skilling priorities, preparing talent for future-ready roles, and nurturing a vibrant entrepreneurial ecosystem within India.
Amitabh Kant, an accomplished IAS officer (Kerala Cadre, 1980), has been instrumental in shaping several landmark initiatives including Make in India, Startup India, Incredible India, and the Delhi-Mumbai Industrial Corridor. During India’s G20 Presidency, he served as Sherpa and played a key role in building global alignment on critical economic and developmental matters. As CEO of NITI Aayog, he spearheaded pivotal reforms in digital transformation, environmental sustainability, startup development and major public–private partnerships.
Commenting on his new role, Amitabh Kant stated: “I believe India needs new-age skilling, given our demographic advantage. We need two things; how to upskill our people quickly and how to collaborate with good companies – both of which upGrad is doing very well. They are increasing their association with private and public universities, as well as companies, to create a complete pipeline of talent for job readiness and entrepreneurship. This is what the government has been advocating, and I am glad to join the board of upGrad to further support them in this endeavour.”
Ronnie Screwvala, Co-founder & Chairperson of upGrad, added: “We are building upGrad with the same discipline and long-term mindset that India’s new growth story demands. Sustainable momentum, strong governance, and meaningful learner outcomes – not hyperbole – are what drive us. Amitabh has spent his career shaping some of India’s biggest transformational missions, and that perspective is invaluable as we deepen our global footprint and widen our impact. His independent rigor and strategic clarity are qualities we greatly value, and his presence signals that we are on the right track, building a profitable, globally relevant learning engine from India with deep roots and big ambition.”
Read more: Ajay Mehta Steps Down From WPP Media After Over A Decade Of Leadership
