Mangaluru: Sahyadri College of Engineering & Management, Mangaluru, and Kristu Jayanti Deemed-to-be University, Bengaluru, formalised a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on June 22, 2026, marking the beginning of a strategic academic partnership aimed at enhancing educational quality, fostering innovation, and creating new opportunities for students and faculty.

The MoU signing ceremony was held at the Sahyadri campus in the presence of more than 400 faculty members and students.

The event was attended by Rev. Dr. Augustine George CMI, Vice Chancellor of Kristu Jayanti Deemed-to-be University, and Rev. Fr. Joshy Mathew CMI, Chief Human Resources Officer (CHRO). Representing Sahyadri College were Chairman and MLC Shri Manjunath Bhandary, Principal Dr. S. S. Injanageri, Administrator Mr. Krishna Hegde, and MBA Director Dr. Vishal Samartha.

Strengthening Academic Growth

Addressing the gathering, Shri Manjunath Bhandary expressed his enthusiasm about the collaboration and recalled his visit to Kristu Jayanti University in April 2026. He appreciated the institution’s academic culture and administrative excellence and stated that guidance from a renowned university would greatly benefit Sahyadri’s recently introduced BBA, BCA, and MCA programmes.

He also shared his vision of transforming Sahyadri College into a deemed-to-be university in the future and highlighted the importance of strategic collaborations in achieving institutional growth and academic excellence.

Learning Through Collaboration

Following an audio-visual presentation on Kristu Jayanti University, Vice Chancellor Rev. Dr. Augustine George CMI delivered the keynote address.

He praised Shri Bhandary’s commitment to education and outlined the remarkable growth journey of Kristu Jayanti University, which has expanded from just nine students in 1999 to over 18,000 students today.

Emphasising the value of continuous learning, institutional partnerships, and a strong sense of belonging, he noted that collaborations between educational institutions contribute significantly to community development and national progress.

Opportunities for Students and Faculty

Rev. Fr. Joshy Mathew CMI highlighted the importance of dedication, commitment, and professional excellence in achieving success. He expressed confidence that the partnership would create meaningful opportunities for students and faculty members through academic exchange, knowledge sharing, and collaborative initiatives.

Principal Dr. S. S. Injanageri presented an overview of Sahyadri College and reiterated the institution’s aspiration to attain university status. He acknowledged the leadership and support of Chairman Shri Manjunath Bhandary and thanked the Kristu Jayanti University team for partnering with Sahyadri in this significant academic initiative.

Partnership for Future Excellence

The programme commenced with a welcome address by Dr. Vishal Samartha. Dr. Sushma V compered the event and proposed the vote of thanks.

The MoU is expected to pave the way for collaborative academic programmes, faculty development initiatives, research activities, student exchange opportunities, and innovation-driven projects, benefiting both institutions and strengthening higher education in the region.