Founder – Academy of Technology

Prof. Jagannath Banerjee

(1966 – 2023)

Founder, Academy of Technology

The Heart and Soul of AOT

Prof. Jagannath Banerjee, the esteemed Founder of Academy of Technology, was a visionary leader whose unwavering commitment to quality education has profoundly shaped the academic landscape of West Bengal. Through AOT—his cherished institution—and its community of AOTians—his extended family—he created a lasting legacy of inspiration, dedication, and excellence.

A man of immense warmth, humility, and compassion, Prof. Banerjee’s leadership was rooted in a deep belief in the transformative power of education. To him, AOT was not just a place for academic excellence; it was a space for personal growth, character development, and the nurturing of dreams.

A Journey of Resilience and Dedication

Prof. Banerjee’s life was a testament to resilience, hard work, and unshakable determination. Despite numerous early challenges, he excelled as a student. His time at IIT Kharagpur and later IIM Calcutta shaped him into a determined engineer and intrepid entrepreneur, laying the foundation for a future that would impact thousands.

Even as Chairman Trustee of AOT, Prof. Banerjee remained deeply hands-on, never allowing his leadership role to distance him from the day-to-day workings of the institution. Whether it was meticulously selecting the colour schemes for classrooms or personally overseeing student training and recruitment programs, he treated every task with the same passion and commitment. He believed that every detail, no matter how small, contributed to creating an environment where students could thrive.

A Legacy of Vision and Innovation

Under Prof. Banerjee’s guidance, AOT flourished rapidly, gaining recognition as one of West Bengal’s top engineering colleges in just a few short years. His industry experience, from Tata-IBM to McKinsey & Co., enabled him to build strategic alliances with leading corporate. Additionally, his associations with his alma maters, IIT Kharagpur and IIM Calcutta, provided him with invaluable support and guidance from several of his former professors and fellow alumni, further strengthening his vision and leadership at AOT. These connections not only enhanced AOT’s credibility but also opened doors for students, allowing them to engage directly with cutting-edge technology and industry practices.

Yet, Prof. Banerjee’s true legacy lies in his unwavering belief that education is about more than just technical expertise—it is about shaping well-rounded individuals who are equipped with the skills, values, and mind-set to succeed in an ever-evolving world. He worked tirelessly to foster a culture of innovation, ethics, and resilience, ensuring that every AOTian—whether a student, faculty member, or staff—could realize their full potential.

A Leader Who Inspired and Empowered

Prof. Banerjee was not just a leader in the traditional sense; he was a mentor, a guide, and a friend to everyone he encountered. His ability to make people from all walks of life feel valued and heard was one of his most extraordinary qualities. Whether he was conversing with a student about their dreams or advising faculty on innovative teaching methods, he made each person feel as though they were a vital part of AOT’s success.

He often said that every student at AOT was like his own child, and he treated them with the same care, attention, and concern. His warmth and compassion created a nurturing environment where students could flourish not only academically but also personally. His leadership style was characterized by a rare balance of visionary thinking and genuine affection for the individuals around him.

An Enduring Vision

Prof. Banerjee’s journey may have come to an end, but his vision and values continue to guide Academy of Technology. The institution he founded stands as a living tribute to his dedication, passion, and belief in the potential of every student. His legacy is evident in the success stories of countless AOTians, who have gone on to excel in their fields.

Prof. Jagannath Banerjee [AOT’s beloved JB Sir] will always be remembered as not just the founder of AOT but as a visionary who nurtured the dreams and aspirations of every student, faculty member, and staff. His legacy lives on through the thriving institution and the many lives he touched, empowering future generations to dream bigger, achieve more, and, like him, never stop believing in the power of education.