IIT Bombay gets USD 11 million donation from alumni to aid women faculty in STEM; semiconductor tech

NEW DELHI: Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Bombay has received USD 11 million dollars donation from alumni Jitendra Mohan and Swapna Samant. The induced donation aims at supporting women faculty members in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) and enhancing the institute’s semiconductor technology.

“A key focus of their contribution is the Vidya Sharma Chair Professorship in Electrical Engineering which is dedicated to supporting women faculty members in STEM,” IIT Bombay’s official statement said.

The initiative reflects the commitment to “gender inclusivity in academia and their aspiration to foster an environment” where women scientists and researchers can grow, the institute said.

IIT Bombay: Other donations, alumni thoughts

In December 2024, IIT Bombay’s silver jubilee batch (class of 1999) pledged a total of Rs 21.2 crore towards Legacy Project, which aimed for the betterment of the institute.

Shireesh Kedare, director of IIT Bombay, said: “This unparalleled act of generosity by Mr. Jitendra Mohan and Ms. Swapna Samant exemplifies the profound impact of alumni engagement on the Institute’s journey of excellence. Their contribution strengthens IIT Bombay’s standing as a hub of innovation and inclusivity, reflecting the transformative power of giving back”.

“IIT Bombay shaped us during some of the most important years of our life, providing us with a strong foundation for long-term professional success. We are grateful for all that we got from IITB and are honored to give back and contribute towards academic opportunities and student well-being,” Mohan and Samant said.

The donation will help in increasing “IIT Bombay’s vision for growth and excellence and boosting the institute’s leadership in semiconductor research,” the statement said.

“Alumni philanthropy continues to build IIT Bombay’s legacy of innovation and empower future generations by championing forward-looking initiatives, towards a more equitable future,” the institute said.