UPL University of Sustainable Technology (an initiative of UPL Group) and the Oxford India Centre for Sustainable Development (OICSD) at Somerville College, University of Oxford, have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to advance knowledge exchange in sustainable food systems and climate change. This builds on their ongoing collaboration, creating new opportunities for training and academic exchange between students and faculty.
Starting in the summer of 2026, selected UPL University faculty will travel to Oxford for specialised training in curriculum development and research-oriented learning. At the same time, experts from OICSD will enrich UPL University’s academic programme through an extra-curricular seminar series focused on global sustainability priorities. Planned sessions include two in-person and two virtual lectures for the upcoming academic year, covering topics such as Artificial Intelligence, Sustainable Development, Climate Action, and Technology Innovation.
Jai Shroff, Chairman & Group CEO of UPL Ltd, said: “At UPL, we believe collaboration and knowledge-sharing are vital for solving the world’s pressing sustainability challenges. This partnership between UPL University and OICSD creates a strong platform for learning and innovation, empowering students and faculty in India to contribute to global sustainability goals. India has the potential to close important research gaps, and this collaboration will help establish UPL University as a hub for international academic exchange in sustainability and technology.”
Baroness Jan Royall, Principal of Somerville College and Executive Director of OICSD, added: “The OICSD is committed to strengthening the UK–India relationship through collaboration on urgent sustainability challenges. Our renewed partnership with UPL presents opportunities to advance work in climate-resilient agriculture, innovation, and environmental stewardship. We are proud to work alongside UPL University to deepen this important exchange of ideas and knowledge.”
According to Ashok Panjwani, President of UPL University: “This collaboration will directly benefit our faculty and students by connecting them with experts from OICSD and by creating opportunities to participate in global sustainability discussions. It will inspire our academic community and strengthen our mission to create solutions for a more sustainable future.”
The partnership reflects the commitment of both institutions to building resilient and inclusive systems through education, innovation, and collaboration. UPL University and OICSD began working together in 2021 with the launch of the OpenAg Symposium, a platform bringing together global leaders from government, industry, and academia to discuss climate and agriculture challenges. The most recent edition, held at Oxford’s Said Business School in September 2024, featured a keynote address by His Excellency Dr Julius Maada Bio, President of Sierra Leone.
Beyond this collaboration, UPL University has developed academic partnerships to enhance its curriculum in areas such as sustainability, automation, robotics, environmental compliance, and process engineering. Together, these initiatives reinforce UPL University’s goal of equipping students and faculty with cutting-edge knowledge, practical skills, and global perspectives for leadership in a fast-changing world.
