Outrage over controversial UK professorship for Indian tycoon
Summary
Newcastle University has faced criticism for awarding a sustainability professorship to Anant Ambani, whose Vantara wildlife centre in India has drawn concerns over animal acquisitions and conservation claims. Critics said the appointment gives academic legitimacy to a controversial corporate-linked facility.
Key Points
- Newcastle University awarded Anant Ambani a professorship of practice in sustainability, citing his contribution to a more sustainable future.
- The appointment sparked backlash over Vantara, the large wildlife centre linked to Ambani that has faced scrutiny for its animal acquisitions and conservation claims.
- Critics argued that universities should challenge corporate power rather than grant legitimacy to it.
- Vantara has denied wrongdoing and Newcastle University said the work aligns with its conservation research.
