Amitabh Kant joins upGrad board as independent director

Edtech unicorn upGrad has appointed former G20 Sherpa and ex–NITI Aayog CEO Amitabh Kant as an Independent Non-Executive Director, a move that strengthens its board as the skilling major enters a new phase of global and domestic expansion.

Kant is expected to play a key role in shaping upGrad’s strategy across international markets and India’s growing skilling agenda. His appointment aligns with the company’s focus on building talent pipelines for emerging sectors.

Kant said India needs “new-age skilling” at speed and scale, adding that upGrad’s partnerships with universities and enterprises position it well to deliver job readiness and entrepreneurship pathways.

upGrad co-founder and chairperson Ronnie Screwvala said Kant’s experience in governance and economic transformation will reinforce the company’s long-term strategy.

Over the past two years, upGrad has expanded across the Middle East, Africa, Southeast Asia, Europe and North America, deepened university partnerships, and invested in AI-led learning systems, multi-campus infrastructure, and personalised content.

The company is also widening its board with seasoned independent leaders to strengthen governance and cross-border operations. It recently appointed Deepesh Dhakad as its Chief Product and Technology Officer (CPTO).

According to TheKredible, upGrad reported an EBITDA profit of Rs 15 crore in FY25, compared to an EBITDA loss of Rs 285 crore in FY24. It recorded gross revenue of Rs 1,943 crore during the last fiscal.