Mukesh Ambani, the chairman and managing director of Reliance Industries Ltd., has made a significant donation of ₹151 crore to his alma mater, the Institute of Chemical Technology (ICT) Mumbai. The announcement was made on Friday, June 6, 2025, during the release of the biography "Divine Scientist" of Prof. M.M. Sharma, a renowned figure in the field of chemical engineering. The grant is unconditional, signifying Ambani's deep commitment to the institution and its future.
ICT, formerly known as the University Department of Chemical Technology (UDCT), has a long and distinguished history in India. Established in 1933 under the University of Mumbai, it has grown into a premier institution for chemical engineering and technology research. In 2014, ICT awarded Mukesh Ambani with an honorary D.Sc. degree, which he accepted with delight as it was his first from his alma mater. ICT has consistently strived to cultivate a world-class learning environment.
The donation highlights the increasing trend of philanthropy toward educational institutions in India. In recent years, several prominent figures have made substantial contributions to their alma maters and other educational organizations. A 2023 report indicated a surge in philanthropic donations in India, with an increase in the number of donors contributing large sums to various causes, particularly education.
Mukesh Ambani's contribution will likely have a far-reaching impact on ICT, enabling it to further enhance its research capabilities, infrastructure, and academic programs. Such investments are crucial for fostering innovation and producing skilled professionals who can contribute to India's growing manufacturing and technology sectors.
ICT has been proactively expanding its offerings and reach. The institute is set to establish a new center in Thane with the support of the Maharashtra state cabinet, which has allocated approximately 40 acres of land for the project. This new center will focus on translational research and avoid duplicating existing work at the Matunga campus. Furthermore, ICT launched a two-year MBA program in Innovation, Entrepreneurship, and Venture Development in the 2024-25 academic year, marking its entry into management education.
Nouryon India also played a vital role in building advanced research facilities at ICT's Department of Polymer and Surface Engineering in Mumbai. By supporting the construction of a state-of-the-art research, technology & innovation (RT&I) center and polymer characterization lab, Nouryon has significantly enhanced the department's research capabilities, underscoring their commitment to research and innovation in polymer engineering.
Mukesh Ambani's generous donation reinforces the importance of alumni engagement and the role of educational institutions in driving societal progress. It sets an example for others to contribute to the development of higher education and research in India, ensuring that institutions like ICT can continue to excel and contribute to the nation's growth.
