Andhra University (AU) has taken a significant step towards enhancing its research capabilities and improving student employability by signing two Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs) with Aurobindo Pharma Foundation and the Survey of India. The partnerships aim to provide students with advanced training, research opportunities, and job placements.
The 10-year MoU with Aurobindo Pharma Foundation will lead to the establishment of a Skill Development Centre in the university’s Department of Chemistry. The centre will be equipped with state-of-the-art laboratory instruments and will provide training to MSc students, research scholars, and students from affiliated colleges. The programme will offer assured employment opportunities at Aurobindo Pharma to those who complete the training. The foundation will manage the installation, maintenance, and provide expert trainers for the centre.
On the other hand, the 5-year MoU with the Survey of India will focus on collaboration in geospatial technologies. The partnership will include joint research, internships, academic support, and information exchange. Survey of India staff will be eligible to pursue ME, MTech, and PhD programmes at AU, while university students will gain internship opportunities at the National Institute for Geo-information and Technology. Both institutions will jointly conduct conferences, workshops, and skill-development programmes.
According to Prof. G.P. Rajashekar, Vice-Chancellor of AU, the collaboration with Survey of India will provide expert guidance to AU researchers, and the university is ready to host national and international events. The partnerships are expected to strengthen the university’s research output and improve student employability, providing a significant boost to career opportunities. Overall, the MoUs demonstrate AU’s commitment to fostering industry-academia collaborations and enhancing the skills and knowledge of its students.