Central University of Kerala and Indian Navy Sign Pact for Maritime Research
The Central University of Kerala (CUK) has signed a memorandum of understanding with the Indian Navy to enhance collaboration in academic and research activities, particularly in maritime studies and strategic research.
The agreement was signed by V.B. Sameer, Registrar of CUK, and Commodore Kalesh Mohanan, Officer-in-Charge of the Naval History Division (NHD), Indian Navy. The ceremony was attended by Vice-Admiral C.R. Praveen Nair, Controller, Personnel Services; Rear Admiral Arjun Dev Nair, Commandant, Naval War College; and several CUK officials, including Suresh R., Dean of the Department of International Relations; Sijin Kumar A.V., Director of Research; and E. Prasad, Director of the Research and Development Cell.
CUK Vice-Chancellor Siddu P. Algur stated that the accord 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 collaboration will facilitate joint research projects, faculty and student exchange programmes, expert lectures, seminars, workshops, internships, and access to specialised knowledge in maritime affairs, naval history, national security, defence technologies, and related disciplines, according to a CUK press release.
The partnership is expected to provide students with exposure to real-world applications of science, technology, strategic studies, and leadership through interactions with naval experts. Faculty members will have opportunities to undertake collaborative research, participate in joint academic initiatives, and contribute to policy-oriented studies on maritime security and national development.
The MoU also supports interdisciplinary research in emerging areas such as maritime technologies, artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, ocean sciences, environmental sustainability, logistics, and innovation.
CUK representatives said the collaboration aligns with the university's vision of promoting research excellence, innovation, and societal relevance, and aims to create meaningful opportunities for students and researchers while contributing to India's maritime and strategic knowledge ecosystem.
