Sundar Pichai Marks IIT Kharagpur's 75 Years, Recalls Campus Memories
Sundar Pichai shares a video message for IIT Kharagpur's 75th anniversary, recalling personal memories and discussing AI's future role.
As the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Kharagpur marks its 75th anniversary, distinguished alumnus and Google CEO Sundar Pichai has shared a video message celebrating the milestone. In his address, Pichai reflected on his time at the campus, crediting the institution for shaping both his personal and professional life.
Pichai recalled fond memories, including meals at Harry's, the Illu festival, late-night study sessions in room B308, and friendships formed with wingmates. He also noted that it was at IIT Kharagpur where he met his wife, Anjali, and had his first experiences with programming and computers.
"Campus is where I met my wife Anjali, where I first learned to program, and where I had my very first few opportunities to use a computer," he said. He added that these experiences set him on a path that eventually led to Google.
Pichai emphasized the formative role the institute played in his life, stating, "IIT Kharagpur played a formative role in shaping the lens through which I strive to make an impact on the world." He described the education received there as "truly a gift," noting that many graduates have made significant contributions to India and globally.
Looking ahead, Pichai expressed confidence that the institute's importance will grow as the next wave of technology unfolds. He highlighted India's increasing capacity for innovation that benefits the world and pointed to the optimism of the younger generation.
Discussing artificial intelligence, Pichai said he believes AI can amplify India's potential, with universities playing a crucial role in ensuring the technology remains accessible and useful. He envisioned AI moving beyond labs into the hands of professionals such as healthcare workers, farmers, and entrepreneurs over the next five years.
Pichai also praised students for driving progress in AI, recalling his meeting with Gemini Student Ambassadors at the AI Impact Summit in Delhi. He described their enthusiasm as palpable and a reason for his optimism about the future.
In response, IIT Kharagpur acknowledged Pichai's message, stating it reflects the enduring global impact of the IIT ecosystem and the power of education and innovation to transform lives.