Curtin Malaysia signs MoU with Indian engineering institute GRIET, paving the way for international collaboration and innovation

Miri, Sarawak – 29 October 2024 – In a move to expand international academic and research partnerships, Curtin University Malaysia (Curtin Malaysia) has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Gokaraju Rangaraju Institute of Engineering and Technology (GRIET), one of Hyderabad’s premier engineering institutions. This collaboration is set to open doors to joint research, student exchange, and innovative academic initiatives between the two institutions.

Held at Curtin Malaysia’s Council Room, the signing ceremony brought together academic leaders from both institutions. Representing Curtin Malaysia, Professor Vincent Lee, Deputy Pro Vice-Chancellor, signed on behalf of Pro Vice-Chancellor, President, and Chief Executive, Professor Simon Leunig. The event was witnessed by Professor Tuong Thuy Vu, Dean of the Faculty of Engineering and Science. GRIET was represented by Professor K.V.S Raju, Registrar of Gokaraju Rangaraju Educational Society, and Professor Swadesh Kumar Singh, Dean of Research & Consultancy.

Also in attendance were Associate Professor Ir. Lim Chye Ing, Associate Dean of External Engagement, Faculty of Engineering and Science; Associate Professor Moola Mohan Reddy, Head of Mechanical Engineering Department; Professor Sujan Debnath, Professor of Mechanical Engineering; and Ir. Ts. Abdul Hamid Abdullah, Lecturer in the Mechanical Engineering Department.

In his remarks, Professor Lee underscored the significance of the MoU, highlighting Curtin Malaysia and GRIET’s shared vision of fostering academic excellence, advancing research, and promoting global collaboration. “At Curtin Malaysia, we are always keen to build strategic partnerships with institutions of repute, and GRIET, with its strong academic foundations and research capabilities, represents an ideal partner. As one of Hyderabad’s leading institutions, GRIET complements our status as Curtin University’s largest global campus and a regional hub in ASEAN,” he remarked.

He further described the MoU as the foundation of a dynamic partnership that will foster long-term collaboration between the institutions through joint activities such as faculty exchanges, student mobility programmes, research partnerships, and the joint organising of academic conferences. He also expressed Curtin Malaysia’s openness to exploring other areas of cooperation as opportunities arise, ensuring that the partnership remains dynamic and responsive to the ever-changing landscape of higher education.

Professor K.V.S Raju echoed this enthusiasm, noting that GRIET students will gain from Curtin Malaysia’s strengths in fields such as sustainable energy and smart technologies, while Curtin Malaysia students can benefit from GRIET’s expertise in electronics, computer science, and mechanical engineering. He also expressed interest in establishing a student exchange programme that will enhance cultural and academic immersion, providing students with a truly international perspective.

“This partnership offers unparalleled opportunities for students and faculty alike,” said Professor K.V.S Raju. “Our shared focus on forward-looking disciplines, such as artificial intelligence, renewable energy, and smart city development, positions us to drive meaningful interdisciplinary research that meets the demands of a rapidly changing world.”

Through shared resources and expertise, Curtin Malaysia and GRIET are poised to make impactful contributions to fields at the forefront of innovation and technology.

For more information on Curtin Malaysia, visit curtin.edu.my, or connect with Curtin Malaysia on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, YouTube, LinkedIn, or TikTok.

Professor Vincent Lee (fourth left) and Professor K.V.S Raju proudly displaying the signed MoU, joined by faculty members from both institutions

Professor Lee (right) presenting a souvenir to Professor K.V.S Raju, symbolising the beginning of a promising partnership