Professor Appointed UTM’s New Director General to Drive Academic Growth

Professor Hemant Chittoo has been appointed as the Director General of the University of Technology, Mauritius (UTM), signalling a new era for the institution.

Chittoo succeeds Dinesh Hurreeram, who has held the position since 2022. Upon taking office, the new Director General expressed his intention to “breathe a new dynamic into the university,” with a primary focus on modernising course offerings and fostering an environment dedicated to academic excellence.

A Veteran of Higher Education

Professor Chittoo brings over 32 years of experience in the higher education sector to the role. His extensive career includes tenures at:

• The University of Mauritius
• The former Mauritius Institute of Public Administration and Management
• The University of Technology, Mauritius (UTM)

This is not the Professor’s first time leading the institution; he previously served as the acting Director General of UTM between 2013 and 2015, ensuring he is already well-versed in its internal operations.

Proven Track Record

Throughout his career, Professor Chittoo has been instrumental in developing sustainable academic programmes and increasing student enrolment.

His achievements include the establishment of the School of Business Management and Finance within the Doctoral School and significant efforts toward internationalising the university.

Beyond administrative efficiency, he has a history of mentoring PhD students and structuring professional pathways for both academic and administrative staff.

Union and Government Support

The appointment has been met with praise from the UTM Employees Union. President Vikash Sewsagur stated he was “very happy” to see a Director General appointed from an academic background.

Mr Sewsagur extended his gratitude to the Minister of Tertiary Education, the Prime Minister, the Deputy Prime Minister, and the Government for their continued support of UTM.

He further suggested that similar levels of support should be extended across all public universities in the country.

Source: Defi Media