Strengthening links with Indian Universities

In a landmark move for international academic collaboration, Durham University has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Amrita Vishwa Vidyapeetham. This agreement establishes the International Joint Centre of Excellence for Energy Resilience and Decarbonisation (CERD), a strategic initiative designed to bolster India–UK cooperation in sustainable energy, climate resilience, and data science innovation.

The MoU was formalised during a delegation visit to Amrita’s Bengaluru campus, led by Professor Claire O’Malley, Pro-Vice-Chancellor (Global). The ceremony included academic leaders and industry giants such as Schneider Electric, ensuring the Centre’s research translates into real-world industrial impact.

The CERD: A Hub for Sustainable Innovation

The Joint Centre serves as an interdisciplinary platform for research and capacity building. Key areas of focus include:

Sustainable energy systems and decarbonisation.

Hazard and risk management.

Advanced data science applications.

Anchored at Amrita’s upcoming research park in Kochi, Kerala, the Centre will facilitate dual postgraduate programmes, faculty and doctoral exchanges, and start-up incubation, utilizing top-tier laboratories across both nations.

Strategic Contributions at the QS India Summit 2026

Expanding the university's presence, Professor O’Malley participated in the QS India Summit on 1 February 2026. She contributed to a high-level roundtable on "Transnational Education (TNE) in a

Creative Economy," organized by the British Council India. Durham University’s approach emphasizes research-led, sustainable TNE that prioritizes academic integrity and long-term societal impact.

Expanding Partnerships Across Indian States

Durham University’s commitment to India was further demonstrated through several key engagements:

Inaugural India Global Education Summit: Charlie Pybus, Director of the International Office, engaged with Tamil Nadu government ministers to discuss "Destination India for International Students."

Social Sciences and Health Delegations: Professor Martin Evans led visits to elite institutions including IIT

Delhi, Ashoka University, and Delhi University to foster structured student mobility and joint research.

MoU with IIT Madras: In January 2026, Durham deepened its engagement with one of India's premier technical institutes, adding to a portfolio of over 20 institutional partnerships.

As a QS World Top 100 institution, Durham University views these international collaborations as essential for fostering global citizenship and maintaining excellence in teaching and research.

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Content Source: For more information, please visit the original press release: Durham University News

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