CUK signs MOU with Indian Navy to foster academic and research collaboration

Published 28 July 2026 · education

The Central University of Kerala (CUK) has signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with the Indian Navy, marking a significant milestone in strengthening collaboration between

The Central University of Kerala (CUK) has signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with the Indian Navy, marking a significant milestone in strengthening collaboration between academia and the armed forces. CUK Vice-Chancellor Siddu P. Algur said the MoU aims to promote academic excellence, interdisciplinary research, knowledge exchange, and capacity building in areas of mutual interest, with a special focus on maritime studies and strategic research. The agreement was signed by V.B. Sameer, Registrar, CUK, and Commodore Kalesh Mohanan, Officer-in-Charge, Naval History Division (NHD), Indian Navy.

The signing ceremony was attended by Vice-Admiral C.R. Praveen Nair, Controller, Personnel Services; Rear Admiral Arjun Dev Nair, Commandant, Naval War College; Suresh R., Dean, Department of International Relations, CUK; Sijin Kumar A.V., Director of Research; and E. Prasad, Director, Research and Development Cell, CUK. The collaboration will facilitate collaborative research, faculty and student exchange programmes, expert lectures, joint seminars, workshops, internships, and access to specialised knowledge in maritime affairs, naval history, national security, defence technologies, and related disciplines, according to a press release from CUK.

The partnership is expected to significantly benefit students by exposing them to real-world applications of science, technology, strategic studies, and leadership through interactions with naval experts. Faculty members will gain opportunities to undertake collaborative research projects, participate in joint academic initiatives, and contribute to policy-oriented studies relevant to maritime security and national development. The MoU also lays the foundation for interdisciplinary research in emerging areas such as maritime technologies, artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, ocean sciences, environmental sustainability, logistics, and innovation, encouraging the exchange of ideas and expertise between the varsity and the Indian Navy.

CUK representatives said the collaboration aligns with the varsity’s vision of promoting research excellence, innovation, and societal relevance. By partnering with one of the country’s premier defence institutions, CUK seeks to create meaningful opportunities for its students and researchers while contributing to India’s maritime and strategic knowledge ecosystem.