University of Mumbai wins FICCI ‘University of the Year 2026’ award

The University of Mumbai has won FICCI's ‘University of the Year 2026’ award in the Established Category for excellence in research, innovation, digital governance and employability. Vice-Chancellor Prof Ravindra Kulkarni received the honour at the FICCI Higher Education Summit in New Delhi.The University of Mumbai has won the Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FICCI) ‘University of the Year 2026’ award in the Established Category, recognising its initiatives in research, innovation, digital governance and employability.The award was presented by former Union Minister for Human Resource Development and Science and Technology Dr Murli Manohar Joshi at the 21st FICCI Higher Education Summit 2026 and the 12th Higher Education Excellence Awards held at Bharat Mandapam in New Delhi. Vice-Chancellor Prof Ravindra Kulkarni and Pro Vice-Chancellor Principal Dr Ajay Bhamare received the award on behalf of the university.The 169-year-old institution emerged as the winner in a competitive field that included IIT Gandhinagar, Banaras Hindu University and Chanakya National Law University among the finalists.The university's presentation centred on its strategy, ‘Cluster Initiatives of Curriculum, Research, Internationalisation, Governance and Employability for Regional, National and Global Impact’. The framework focused on five areas: curriculum development in emerging fields, research and innovation, employability and entrepreneurship, international engagement, and governance and digital transformation. As part of its innovation-led approach, the university is expanding its focus on artificial intelligence, deep-tech research, research funding, start-up development and industry partnerships. Its initiatives include the implementation of the National Education Policy 2020, the India@2047 roadmap, digital governance, the University Department Ranking Framework, and the MU IDEAS Foundation and ACIC-MU RISE Foundation.