On March 4, 2025, the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Kanpur proudly announced a remarkable gesture of generosity from its Class of 1980. During their 45-year reunion, held from March 2 to 4, this distinguished cohort of alumni pledged a collective donation of Rs 4.2 crore to their alma mater. The event, attended by 63 alumni, was not just a celebration of nostalgia and camaraderie but also a testament to the enduring bond between IIT Kanpur and its graduates. This contribution, aimed at supporting a range of initiatives on campus, underscores the pivotal role alumni play in shaping the future of one of India’s most prestigious institutions.
A Milestone Reunion: Reflecting on 45 Years
The 45-year reunion of the Class of 1980 was a momentous occasion, blending reflection with forward-looking optimism. Held over three days, the event brought together alumni from across the globe to reconnect with their roots, revisit memories of their time at IIT Kanpur, and celebrate the institution that laid the foundation for their success. For many, it was a chance to walk the familiar pathways of the sprawling 1,055-acre campus, marvel at its growth, and share stories of their formative years in the late 1970s.
The reunion was marked by a profound sense of nostalgia. Alumni reminisced about their days in Hall 3, a residence that holds special significance for the batch, and reflected on the rigorous academic environment that shaped their careers. The event was not merely a trip down memory lane; it was an opportunity to witness the transformation of IIT Kanpur into a global leader in technological education and innovation. From cultural programs to campus tours, the reunion fostered a renewed sense of pride in their shared legacy.
The Donation: A Collective Commitment to Progress
The highlight of the reunion was the announcement of the Rs 4.2 crore donation, a collective effort by the Class of 1980 to give back to the institute that propelled them to success. This substantial contribution will fund several key initiatives at IIT Kanpur, reflecting the alumni’s commitment to enhancing the academic and infrastructural landscape of their alma mater. According to an official statement from the institute, the funds will support:
1.] Contributions to Hall 3: In celebration of their Hall Day, the alumni directed a portion of the donation toward improving facilities at Hall 3, a nod to the residence that served as their home during their student years.
3.] Grant for the Girls’ Hostel: A specific allocation will enhance accommodations for female students, promoting gender equity and improving living conditions.
4.] Creation of a Corpus Fund: This fund will provide a sustainable source of financial support for ongoing and future academic initiatives.
5.] Endowed Awards and Programs: The donation will also establish several excellence awards, including the Pravir Dutt Excellence Award, the KS Gandhi and SK Gupta Research Excellence Award, the Humanities-Technology Bridge (a tribute to Mahajan and Dhanagare), and the SK Gupta and KS Gandhi Undergraduate Excellence Award. These initiatives aim to recognize and encourage outstanding contributions from students and faculty.
This multifaceted approach ensures that the donation addresses immediate needs while laying the groundwork for long-term growth. It reflects a deep understanding of the institute’s priorities and a desire to leave a lasting impact.
Voices of Gratitude and Vision
The announcement of the donation was met with widespread appreciation from IIT Kanpur’s leadership. Professor Manindra Agrawal, Director of IIT Kanpur, emphasized the broader significance of the gesture. “In addition to technical education, IIT Kanpur is committed to shaping responsible citizens who serve as catalysts for change and development,” he said. “The alumni from the Class of 1980 are thriving in their respective fields while remaining deeply connected to their roots. We are grateful for their generous contribution to the institute, which will provide significant momentum to various academic initiatives on campus.”
Professor Amey Karkare, Dean of Resources and Alumni, echoed this sentiment, highlighting the pivotal role of alumni in the institute’s advancement. “IIT Kanpur has always been privileged to have a dedicated and deeply engaged alumni network that consistently contributes to the institute’s advancement,” he stated. “The generous commitment from the Class of 1980 will play a pivotal role in strengthening critical infrastructure, enhancing student amenities, and promoting academic excellence across various domains. Such contributions, while reaffirming the enduring bond between our alumni and their alma mater, also serve as an inspiration for future generations to uphold the spirit of giving back.”
On behalf of the alumni, batch coordinator Pradip Parikh articulated the motivation behind the donation. “It was heart-warming to be a part of the 45-Year Reunion of the Class of 1980,” he said. “The institute has been a major reason behind our achievements and the values we continue to exercise in our lives. Collectively, we wanted to pay our respects and give back to our alma mater and believe these contributions will go a long way in strengthening the institute’s resources and ensuring a better learning experience and development of current and future students.”
The Class of 1980: A Legacy of Achievement
The Class of 1980 is a remarkable cohort, with its members excelling in diverse fields such as engineering, technology, business, academia, and public service. Graduating at a time when India was on the cusp of significant technological and economic transformation, these alumni leveraged the rigorous education and problem-solving skills instilled at IIT Kanpur to make their mark globally. Many went on to hold leadership positions in multinational corporations, launch successful entrepreneurial ventures, or contribute to cutting-edge research.
One notable alumnus from this batch is Ajay Dubey, who graduated from the Chemical Engineering department in 1980. Dubey’s illustrious career includes serving as Vice President at Infosys, Head of Infosys Pune Development Center, COO of Persistent Systems, and an angel investor at Uniken. His journey exemplifies the caliber of talent produced by IIT Kanpur and the Class of 1980’s commitment to excellence.
The decision to donate Rs 4.2 crore reflects not just financial generosity but also a collective ethos of gratitude and responsibility. For these alumni, IIT Kanpur was more than an educational institution—it was a launchpad that equipped them with the tools to succeed and the values to contribute meaningfully to society.
Alumni Giving: A Growing Trend at IIT Kanpur
The Class of 1980’s donation is part of a broader trend of alumni generosity at IIT Kanpur, which has seen significant contributions from various batches in recent years. For instance, in December 2024, the Class of 1999 pledged Rs 11.6 crore during their Silver Jubilee reunion to support infrastructure, research, and academic programs. Earlier, in February 2024, the Class of 1974 committed Rs 10.11 crore during their Golden Jubilee reunion, establishing the Class of 1974 Batch Legacy Fund. Additionally, individual alumni have made substantial donations, such as Rakesh Gangwal (Class of 1975), who contributed Rs 100 crore in 2022 to establish the Gangwal School of Medical Sciences and Technology.
This pattern of giving highlights the strong alumni network at IIT Kanpur and their unwavering commitment to its growth. It also reflects a cultural shift in India, where alumni of premier institutions are increasingly stepping forward to support education and innovation. Compared to institutions like IIT Bombay, where the Class of 1998 donated Rs 57 crore in 2023, IIT Kanpur’s alumni contributions are steadily rising, reinforcing its position as a hub of excellence.
The Impact: Strengthening IIT Kanpur’s Future
The Rs 4.2 crore donation will have a transformative impact on IIT Kanpur, aligning with its mission to foster innovation, research, and inclusivity. The improvements to Hall 3 and the girls’ hostel will enhance the student experience, while the Corpus Fund ensures financial stability for future projects. The endowed awards will incentivize academic and research excellence, nurturing the next generation of leaders and innovators.
Moreover, this contribution comes at a time when IIT Kanpur is expanding its interdisciplinary offerings and global outreach. With over 9,000 students, 570 full-time faculty members, and 25 research centers, the institute is poised to address pressing challenges in science, technology, and society. The alumni’s support will accelerate these efforts, enabling IIT Kanpur to maintain its reputation as a trailblazer in education and research.
A Model for Future Generations
The Class of 1980’s donation sets a powerful example for future batches. It demonstrates that alumni giving is not just about financial support but also about sustaining a legacy of excellence and community. As Professor Karkare noted, such contributions inspire younger generations to uphold the spirit of giving back, ensuring that IIT Kanpur remains a beacon of progress for decades to come.
The reunion itself, described by the institute as a “gathering marked by profound nostalgia, enduring camaraderie, and meaningful reflection,” reinforced the emotional ties that bind alumni to their alma mater. It was a reminder that the IIT Kanpur experience extends beyond academics—it is about forging lifelong connections and a shared commitment to making a difference.
Conclusion: A Gift That Echoes Through Time
The Rs 4.2 crore donation from IIT Kanpur’s Class of 1980 is more than a monetary contribution; it is a symbol of gratitude, unity, and vision. As the institute celebrates this milestone, it looks forward to leveraging these funds to enhance its infrastructure, support its students, and advance its academic mission. The Class of 1980 has not only honored its past but also invested in the future, ensuring that IIT Kanpur continues to shape responsible citizens and catalysts for change.
This act of generosity will resonate through the halls of IIT Kanpur, inspiring current students and future alumni to carry forward the torch of excellence. As the institute extends its heartfelt thanks to the Class of 1980, it reaffirms its commitment to innovation, education, and societal impact—values that this batch has embodied for 45 years and counting.
