Newcastle University Faces Backlash Over Anant Ambani's Sustainability Professorship

Newcastle University is facing backlash from conservationists over the appointment of Anant Ambani, the son of India’s richest person, as a professor of sustainability. The university announced that Ambani, who also runs a controversial mega-zoo, had been granted a professorship of practice in recognition of his work in conservation, biodiversity protection, animal welfare, and environmental stewardship, as well as his significant contributions to advancing a more sustainable future.

The decision has met with incredulity and criticism from environmental groups. The controversy centers on the contrast between the academic title of professor of sustainability and Ambani’s background as an heir to an Indian oil and gas fortune.