Edtech major upGrad has announced the appointment of Amitabh Kant—former G20 Sherpa of India and ex-CEO of NITI Aayog—as an independent non-executive director on its board. The strategic addition is expected to significantly bolster upGrad’s global ambitions, especially as the company continues to scale its learning solutions across international markets.
In an official statement, upGrad highlighted that Kant’s deep global understanding and experience in steering India’s major transformational initiatives will play a crucial role in guiding the edtech platform’s worldwide expansion strategy. His involvement brings a new layer of policy expertise, global perspective and leadership credibility to the company’s board.
A Strategic Move for upGrad’s Global Growth
upGrad cofounder and chairperson Ronnie Screwvala emphasized the value Kant brings to the table, stating that his vast career experience has shaped some of India’s most impactful nationwide missions. “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,” Screwvala said.
The edtech platform has been pushing aggressively into international markets, offering higher education, skilling, upskilling and workforce development programs across regions. With global demand for online education continuing to soar, Kant’s global policy insights and diplomatic experience will be instrumental in navigating regulatory landscapes, forming strategic alliances and scaling sustainable education initiatives worldwide.
Amitabh Kant’s Transformational Career in Policy and Governance
Amitabh Kant is widely recognized as one of India’s most influential policymakers. Over the years, he has contributed to several groundbreaking national programs such as:
- Make in India – promoting India as a manufacturing hub
- Startup India – strengthening India’s startup ecosystem
- Incredible India – reshaping India’s global tourism brand
- Delhi-Mumbai Industrial Corridor – one of India’s largest infrastructure initiatives
His work has consistently focused on boosting innovation, sustainability, entrepreneurship and economic development. Kant also played a central role as India’s G20 Sherpa, representing the country at global forums and facilitating diplomatic negotiations during India’s G20 presidency.
Before his G20 role, Kant served as the CEO of NITI Aayog, where he led initiatives related to digital governance, sustainability, emerging technologies, public-private partnerships and the promotion of India’s innovation landscape. His leadership has significantly influenced policy frameworks that support startups, digital transformation and inclusive growth.
A Powerful Combination for the Future of Edtech
With Kant joining its board, upGrad is poised to deepen its impact on global learners, enterprises and universities. His strategic vision aligns with upGrad’s long-term goal of becoming a worldwide leader in online learning and workforce development.
As the edtech industry matures, the synergy between innovative learning platforms and strong policy leadership may help shape the future of global education—making upGrad’s latest board appointment both timely and transformative.
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