Dr Kamat appointed VC of Shivaji University, Kolhapur

Kolhapur: Dr Rajanish Kamat was on Thursday appointed the vice-chancellor of Shivaji University, Kolhapur.

Dr Kamat becomes the 14th VC of university. He will serve a five-year term or until he attains the age of 65, whichever comes earlier. A native of Kagal in Kolhapur district, Dr Kamat holds an MSc in Electronics from Shivaji University and a PhD from Goa University. He has also undergone advanced technical training at the Indian Institute of Science (Bengaluru) and IIT (Kanpur).

Speaking about his appointment, Dr Kamat said it was an “unforgettable moment” to lead the university that shaped his life. “My priorities would include strengthening research, introducing new courses and ensuring better placement opportunities, with the aim of elevating the university’s national and global standing,” he said.

With over 28 years of experience in teaching, research and administration, Dr Kamat has contributed significantly to higher education through his work at Shivaji University, Goa University, Punyashlok Ahilyadevi Holkar Solapur University and Homi Bhabha State University, Mumbai.

He has an impressive research portfolio, holding 11 granted patents, 13 published patents and 43 patent applications. His innovations include a biomaterial-based brain-inspired computing device, a smart light-harvesting system, a pesticide detection mechanism, a healthcare big data tool, and a hands-free smart voice assistant. One of his designs has also secured a patent in the UK.

The position at Shivaji University had been vacant since Oct 7, 2025, following the completion of Dr Digambar Shirke’s tenure. In the interim, Dr Suresh Gosavi, VC of Savitribai Phule Pune University, was given additional charge.