Newcastle University has clarified that it did not receive a donation from Anant Ambani or any company linked to him in connection with his recently awarded Professorship of Practice.
The university said the honour recognises Ambani’s work in conservation, biodiversity protection, animal welfare and environmental stewardship, including his role with Vantara and his involvement in Reliance Group’s transition towards renewable energy.
The clarification came after a report in The Guardian discussed criticism surrounding the professorship, with conservationists and academics raising questions about the relationship between wealthy donors, corporations and universities.
Newcastle University said the professorship does not confer an academic qualification and does not involve Ambani in setting the institution’s academic direction.
The university described Ambani as an international leader in sustainability and clean-energy transition and highlighted Vantara’s work in rescuing, rehabilitating and protecting endangered and injured animals.
University Vice-Chancellor and President Chris Day said tackling biodiversity decline requires leadership, innovation and collaboration across sectors, adding that Ambani’s work aligns with the university’s research and sustainability priorities.
Ambani accepted the honour as a responsibility to contribute further to conservation and sustainability, saying these efforts should extend across nations and generations.
