Backlash as Indian oil heir made professor of sustainability by Newcastle University

Newcastle University has sparked outrage among conservationists after appointing the son of India’s wealthiest individual—a figure tied to a controversial mega-zoo—as a professor of sustainability. The role, described as focused on conservation and environmental stewardship, has drawn criticism given the individual’s background and the zoo’s contentious reputation. Critics question whether the appointment aligns with genuine conservation efforts or serves as a PR move for a business empire built on fossil fuels. The university defends the hire, citing the individual’s claimed contributions to sustainability, but the controversy underscores broader tensions over corporate influence in academia.

Role for Anant Ambani, son of India’s richest person, who also runs a controversial mega-zoo, met with incredulityNewcastle University is facing a backlash from conservationists over the appointment of the heir to an Indian oil and gas fortune who runs a controversial mega-zoo as a professor of sustainability.The university announced that Anant Ambani had been given a professorship of practice for “his work in conservation, biodiversity protection, animal welfare and environmental stewardship” and “significant contributions to advancing a more sustainable future”. Continue reading...