Puducherry: Pondicherry University (PU) and the Indian Institute of Petroleum and Energy (IIPE), Visakhapatnam, signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on Friday to foster academic and research collaboration in the fields of Earth Sciences, energy technologies, and sustainable development.

The agreement was signed at the university campus in the presence of senior officials and faculty members from both institutions. The partnership aims to facilitate joint research, student and faculty exchange, expert lectures, internships, and shared access to laboratory facilities.

Vice-Chancellor of Pondicherry University, Prof. P. Prakash Babu, said the MoU aligns with the university's commitment to build strong institute linkages and knowledge ecosystems focused on India's energy needs and environmental sustainability.

IIPE Director Prof. Shalivahan noted the MoU would help bridge the gap between lab research and real-world applications. “Combining IIPE's testing and research infrastructure with Pondicherry University's academic base will enable impactful innovation,” he said.

Prof. S. Victor Anandkumar, Dean (International Relations), and MoU coordinator Dr. Shailendra Singh highlighted the strategic planning behind the collaboration. The agreement is expected to catalyse a long-term, mutually enriching partnership.

The ceremony was attended by heads of departments, researchers, and representatives from both institutions.