The Indian Institute of Technology Kharagpur, has signed a strategic academic partnership with Empress Catherine II Saint Petersburg Mining University, Russia, through a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) during a virtual ceremony. This collaboration aims to strengthen academic and research ties between the two prestigious institutions.
Under this agreement, both institutes will promote student and scholar exchange programs, faculty exchange for joint scientific research, and the development of joint academic programmes for students as well as working professionals. The MoU was signed in the presence of Prof. Vladimir Litvinenko, Rector of Saint Petersburg Mining University, and Prof. Suman Chakraborty, Director of IIT Kharagpur, marking an important step toward global academic cooperation.
Both institutions highlighted the growing need to deepen Indo-Russian collaboration in higher education, advanced research and technological innovation. They emphasized that stronger academic ties would open new opportunities for knowledge exchange and joint development of cutting-edge solutions in critical sectors.
The partnership will make use of the strong research facilities and academic expertise available at both universities, particularly in disciplines such as Mining Engineering, Petroleum Engineering, Rubber Technology, Mechanical Engineering, Chemical Engineering, Geology, Geophysics and Artificial Intelligence applications in energy and earth sciences. Senior officials from both sides were present during the virtual ceremony. The initiative further strengthens the long-standing cooperation between India and Russia in the fields of Science and Technology.
According to the official statement, the MoU is expected to play an important role in addressing emerging energy challenges from traditional coal and petroleum resources to critical minerals required for energy transition. It also aims to promote skilled human resource development and support innovation-driven technological advancements in the sector.
Duration and Scope of the MoU
- The Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) will remain valid for an initial fixed period, with the possibility of renewal based on mutual agreement and progress review.
- The partnership is designed as a long-term academic collaboration focused on sustained research and educational engagement.
- The agreement includes the potential introduction of joint and dual degree programs in selected disciplines, subject to academic and regulatory approvals.
- Both institutions are exploring the establishment of joint research centres and advanced laboratories in priority areas such as mining technology, energy resources and critical minerals.
- The proposed collaboration will support shared research infrastructure, faculty exchange and innovation-driven projects between the two countries.
Benefits for Students
- International Exposure: Students will gain global learning experience by interacting with international faculty and peers.
- Joint Research Opportunities: They can work on collaborative research projects with access to advanced labs and expert guidance.
- Internship and Industry Collaboration: The partnership may open doors to internships and industry-linked projects, improving career prospects.
- Skill Development in Emerging Energy Technologies: Students will build knowledge in areas like sustainable mining, critical minerals and modern energy technologies.
