Kochi: Bharat Petroleum Corporation Limited (BPCL) and the Cochin University of Science and Technology (CUSAT) have signed a five-year strategic Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) aimed at promoting joint research, consultancy, student engagement, and long-term industry–academia collaboration.
The partnership is designed to create a structured framework for cooperation that supports innovation, applied research, and skill development in areas relevant to the energy, refining, and technology sectors.
MoU Signing Ceremony Held at CUSAT
The MoU was formally signed by Dr. A. U. Arun, Registrar, CUSAT, and Mr. M. Sankar, Executive Director (Kochi Refinery), BPCL, in the presence of senior officials from both institutions.
CUSAT was represented by:
- Dr. G. Santhosh Kumar
- Dr. D. Mavoothu
- Dr. A. Mathiazhagan, Head, Department of Ship Technology
- Dr. Sam Thomas, Director, Internal Quality Assurance Cell (IQAC)
- Dr. K. Sivaprasad, Former Vice Chancellor, APJ Abdul Kalam Technological University (KTU)
Representatives from BPCL Kochi Refinery included:
- Mr. Sibi Ignatius, Chief General Manager (Inspection & Advisory Service)
- Mr. Roopesh M., General Manager (Inspection)
- Mr. Sanal S., Senior Manager (Inspection)
Read also: BPCL Wins ‘Pipeline Transportation – Company of the Year’ Award at India Energy Week 2026
Key Areas of Collaboration
Under the MoU, BPCL and CUSAT will collaborate in several areas of mutual interest, including:
- Joint research projects aligned with industry needs
- Consultancy services by CUSAT faculty and DESCON (Department of Ship Technology Consultancy)
- Student and faculty engagement programs, including internships and industrial exposure
- Technical workshops, seminars, and conferences
- Knowledge and resource sharing to support applied research and innovation
Boosting Research, Innovation, and Skill Development
The collaboration highlights BPCL’s commitment to building strong industry–academia ecosystems that foster research excellence, innovation, and capacity building in India’s energy and refining sector. For CUSAT, the partnership offers opportunities to align academic research with real-world industrial challenges, enhancing the employability and skill development of students.
The MoU is expected to contribute significantly to technology advancement, sustainable growth, and collaborative knowledge creation over the next five years.
About Bharat Petroleum Corporation Limited (BPCL)
Bharat Petroleum Corporation Limited (BPCL) is a Fortune Global 500 public sector undertaking and one of India’s leading oil and gas companies, operating across refining, marketing, and distribution of petroleum products. With a strong focus on innovation, sustainability, and digital transformation, BPCL continues to play a key role in supporting India’s energy security and economic growth.
