University of London awards Doctor of Science (Economics) to Kumar Mangalam Birla

The awards were presented by Her Royal Highness The Princess Royal, Chancellor of the University of London, during the University’s foundation day celebrations

Foundation Day 2025 was attended by students and staff of the University of London, representatives from its 17 Federation Member institutions

Kumar Mangalam Birla is one of five honorands to receive an honorary degree from the University of London. Professor Sir Hilary Beckles, Sir Terry Waite, Susannah Schofield MBE and The Reverend Philip Goff are also honoured along with him. Kumar Mangalam Birla is Chairman of the Aditya Birla Group.

The awards were presented by Her Royal Highness The Princess Royal, Chancellor of the University of London, during the University’s foundation day celebrations held at Senate House, London, on Wednesday 19 November. Birla becomes Doctor of Science (Economics).

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Kavita Reddi, Chair of the Board of Trustees of the University of London, said: “We are delighted to honour Mr Birla with an Honorary Degree in recognition of his outstanding contributions to industry and philanthropy. His social initiatives have improved millions of lives, and his commitment to widening access to quality education, both in India and here in the UK, reflects the University of London’s core values – a passion for helping others, recognising the value of education and a desire to unite, rather than divide.

Kumar Mangalam Birla, Chairman, Aditya Birla Group, said, “I am humbled to receive this distinction from the University of London. It is a particular privilege to accept a storied honour presented by Her Royal Highness, Princess Anne, The Princess Royal. As an alumnus of the London Business School, I have witnessed first-hand the university’s ability to transform ambition into achievement. My family has long believed that education is the most enduring engine of progress, capable of widening opportunity and reshaping communities. To be recognised by an institution that embodies those values and continues to equip new generations to take on an unpredictable world is both moving and motivating.”

Each year, the University of London celebrates Foundation Day, a date on the annual calendar marking the institution’s first royal charter, granted by William IV on 28 November 1836. The ceremony centres on the conferment of honorary degrees and fellowships, a tradition that began in 1903 with recipients including the Prince and Princess of Wales (later King George V and Queen Mary).

Foundation Day 2025 was attended by students and staff of the University of London, representatives from its 17 Federation Member institutions and its global network of Regional Teaching Centres, and people with long-standing connections with the University.