Guwahati, July 28, 2024 — Nani Gopal Mahanta, a renowned academic and policy advisor, has been appointed as the new Vice Chancellor of Gauhati University. Mahanta’s extensive experience in academia and public policy is expected to bring fresh insights and leadership to the prestigious institution.
Previously, Mahanta served as a professor in the Political Science Department at Gauhati University. His roles included department head and registrar from 2018 to 2019, highlighting his administrative acumen.
Mahanta is an alumnus of Jawaharlal Nehru University and furthered his education as a Rotary World Peace Fellow at the University of California, Berkeley, from 2002 to 2004. This fellowship enabled him to conduct research across Europe and South Asia, enhancing his academic and global perspective.
Throughout his distinguished career, Mahanta has been a prolific author and commentator on regional and national issues. His contributions to public discourse were recognized with the Education Research and Development Foundation Excellence Award in 2009.
His expertise has been sought by various government bodies in Assam, including the Department of Education and the Secondary Education Board. Additionally, Mahanta has held leadership positions in academic institutions, such as president of the governing body at Handique Girls College and president of the Northeast India Political Science Association from 2014 to 2018.
Born in Sivasagar, Assam, Mahanta hails from a Vaishnavite Satriya family, maintaining a deep interest in regional cultural traditions. His appointment as Vice Chancellor is seen as a significant step for Gauhati University, promising a blend of academic excellence and cultural richness under his leadership.
Read More: Jishnu Dev Varma Appointed Governor of Telangana, A First for Tripura