Google CEO Sundar Pichai Gets Honorary Doctorate From IIT-Kharagpur, Wife Anjali Pichai Gets Award

San Francisco: Sundar Pichai, CEO of Google, along with his wife, Anjali Pichai, were recently honored by their alma mater, the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Kharagpur, at an event in San Francisco. Sundar Pichai was awarded an honorary Doctor of Science (Honoris Causa), while Anjali Pichai received the Distinguished Alumnus Award for her accomplishments in Chemical Engineering.

Sundar Pichai Gets Honorary Doctorate Degree

Sundar Pichai shared the joyous moment with his followers on Instagram, posting two images from the ceremony. One image captured him receiving the honorary degree, and the other showed him greeting the officials from IIT Kharagpur who traveled to San Francisco for the occasion.

 In his post, Pichai expressed gratitude towards the institute, stating, “Last week I was grateful to receive an honorary doctorate from my alma mater, IIT Kharagpur. My parents always hoped I would get my doctorate, I think an honorary one still counts.”

‘Technology at IIT Put Me On Path To Google'

Pichai reflected on the crucial role that IIT Kharagpur played in his journey to becoming the CEO of Google. “The access to education and technology at IIT put me on a path to Google and helping more people access technology. IIT’s role in technology will only grow in importance with the AI revolution, and I will always be thankful for my time there,” he added.

‘Anjali Pichai Graduated With Honors’

Anjali Pichai, who graduated with honors in Chemical Engineering from IIT Kharagpur in 1993, was recognized for her achievements and contributions. Her accolade as a Distinguished Alumnus adds to the legacy of the Pichai family at the prestigious institute.

IIT Kharagpur stated that Sundar Pichai was awarded the honorary doctorate for his significant contributions to digital transformation, affordable technology, and groundbreaking innovations. The institute's official statement noted, “In recognition of his remarkable contribution towards digital transformation, affordable technology, and path-breaking innovations; President Droupadi Murmu, Visitor of the institute, bestowed the degree of Doctor of Science (Honoris Causa) to Pichai in absentia at the 69th Convocation of IIT-Kharagpur in December last year. However, as Pichai was not present at the annual convocation, the institute therefore had decided to reach out to him at a later date for the same. On July 23, the institute officials held the felicitation programme in San Francisco.”

Educational Journey of Sundar Pichai

Sundar Pichai’s educational journey began with a degree in metallurgical engineering from IIT Kharagpur. He then moved to the United States, where he earned a master's degree in materials science and engineering from Stanford University, followed by an MBA from the Wharton School at the University of Pennsylvania.

Pichai’s professional career took off at McKinsey before he joined Google in 2004. At Google, he led product management and innovation for various key products, including Chrome, Chrome OS, and Google Drive. He also played a pivotal role in the development of Google Maps and took on the management of Android in 2013. In August 2015, Pichai was appointed CEO of Google, cementing his place as a significant figure in the tech industry.

What is Honorary Doctorate 

An honorary doctorate is an academic degree awarded by a university to an individual in recognition of their exceptional contributions to a specific field or society in general, rather than the completion of the usual academic requirements. This degree is often given to acknowledge a person's achievements in areas such as public service, arts, philanthropy, or contributions to a specific discipline. It serves as a symbolic gesture to honor the individual's impact and accomplishments.