The International Institute of Information Technology, Hyderabad (IIITH) witnessed a historic leadership transition as Prof. PJ Narayanan stepped down after a remarkable 12-year tenure, passing the baton to Prof. Sandeep Shukla, noted cybersecurity expert and Rajiv & Ritu Batra Endowed Chair Professor at IIT Kanpur.
The announcement of Prof. Shukla’s appointment was made during IIITH’s 24th Convocation, following an extensive and transparent selection process involving faculty, students, alumni, and non-teaching staff. Prof. Narayanan remarked, “I am pleased that the process of engaging the entire institute in selecting its leader—initiated in 2012—has been carried forward with even more openness and rigour this time.”
The appointment followed months of stakeholder consultations. Feedback was sought from faculty, staff, student parliament members, and global alumni to define the qualities required in the new leader. A longlist of eminent candidates was compiled through nominations and applications, leading to a series of in-depth presentations and discussions.
Prof. Narayanan leaves behind a legacy marked by academic growth, international collaborations, and a culture of innovation. Under his stewardship, IIITH strengthened its position as a leader in AI research, robotics, computer vision, and translational technology.
Incoming Director Prof. Shukla brings expertise in cybersecurity and a track record of fostering cutting-edge research and industry partnerships. He is expected to focus on expanding IIITH’s global research footprint, driving innovation-led entrepreneurship, and reinforcing a collaborative academic ecosystem.
As IIITH embarks on its next chapter, expectations are high for Prof. Shukla to guide the institute toward greater global impact while preserving the openness and academic excellence that define its ethos.
