Premium

BITS Pilani alumna Usha Kumar donates $1 million to endowment fund

Usha Kumar, based in the UK, made history as the first female donor from BITS Pilani to contribute $1 million.

Her contribution to BITS Pilani will support scholarships for girls and PhD fellowships. (Representative image/ Express photo)

BITS Pilani has received contributions totaling $2 million from its alumni. Usha Kumar, an alumna from the batch of 1967, and Alok Kothari, a 1988 alumnus, have collectively contributed $2 million to the institute’s $100 Million Endowment Fund. These contributions are earmarked for scholarships for girls, PhD fellowships, and the establishment of a Centre of Excellence in Sustainability.

Usha Kumar, based in the UK, made history as the first female donor from BITS Pilani to contribute $1 million. Her contribution will support scholarships for girls and PhD fellowships. “We hope our contribution will enable meritorious and needy children, especially girls to study at BITS Pilani and the institute will keep excelling in providing outstanding education to our youth,” said Usha Kumar.

Also read | IIT-Bombay, BITS Pilani collaborate for research, skill development

Alok Kothari, Founding Executive of the unicorn company Netskope Inc., also donated $1 million, which will be used to set up the Centre of Excellence in Sustainability. “Investing in a center of excellence for sustainability is not just about fostering innovative solutions; it’s about cultivating leaders who are committed to protecting our planet for future generations. I expect students and faculty at this center to explore sustainable practices and drive meaningful change within our communities and beyond. This initiative embodies the values of education, stewardship, and responsibility – hallmarks of BITS’s legacy. I imagine the CoE to foster the culture of sustainability that inspires others to reimagine our relationship with the environment and create a brighter, more sustainable future for all,” said Alok.

Both alumni contributions underscore the growing engagement of BITS Pilani’s global alumni network, with over $20 million in pledges and substantial fund transfers in recent years, positioning the institute among the top five in the country for alumni contributions, BITS Pilani stated.

‘Why weren’t TVK leaders told it wasn’t right day for a big event’: Cong MP Jothimani

Political Pulse5 hr ago

A stampede at TVK founder Vijay's rally in Karur led to the death of 40 people and injuries to many. Congress's Karur MP Jothimani identifies overcrowding, poor planning, and the timing of the event as possible causes. She recommends setting clear guidelines for political gatherings and consulting all parties to prevent similar tragedies.

View all shorts

Live Blog

PHOTOS