UK-India Academic and Research Partnerships in Focus During Deputy High Commissioner’s Visit to MAHE

Manipal, January 31, 2026: Mr Chandru Iyer, His Majesty’s Deputy High Commissioner to Karnataka & Kerala and Deputy Trade Commissioner for Investment in South Asia, visited Manipal Academy of Higher Education (MAHE), an Institution of Eminence Deemed to be University, on Friday, 30 January 2026. The visit aimed to strengthen academic, research, and innovation collaborations between India and the United Kingdom.

Welcoming the delegation, Lt. Gen. (Dr.) M. D. Venkatesh, VSM (Retd.), Vice Chancellor, MAHE, shared an overview of MAHE’s academic programmes, research strengths, and international engagement. He highlighted key areas of cooperation with the UK, including science and technology, healthcare, innovation, and higher education.

Speaking on the occasion, Dr Venkatesh said, “MAHE has consistently built strong global partnerships that combine academic excellence, research, and social relevance. The United Kingdom is an important strategic partner for us, especially in advanced research, innovation, healthcare, and technology.”

During the interaction, Mr Chandru Iyer shared perspectives on the evolving landscape of international partnerships between India and the UK. He engaged in detailed discussions on potential avenues for collaboration with UK universities, research institutions, and industry partners, underscoring the importance of sustained academic and innovation linkages in addressing global challenges.

The meeting was attended by Ms Leena Paul, Senior Investment Adviser, and Mr Chethan G. M., Inward Investment Adviser, from the British Deputy High Commission, Bengaluru, along with Mr Rory Picardo, Head-Technology, Education, Innovation, and Skills, Department for Business and Trade. Senior leadership from MAHE who attended the meeting included Dr Narayana Sabhahit, Pro Vice Chancellor-Technology & Science; Dr P. Giridhar Kini, Registrar; and Dr Anup Naha, Director- International Collaborations.