Mangaluru: Commemorating World Youth Skills Day 2026, the Indian Institute of Skill Development and Research (IISDR) entered into a strategic Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with St. Aloysius (Deemed to be University), Mangaluru at the University Campus, reinforcing a shared commitment towards advancing skill development, research, innovation, and youth employability.
The MoU was formally signed by Arundathi Hegde, Deputy Director, Indian Institute of Skill Development and Research (IISDR), and Rev. Dr. Praveen Martis SJ, Vice-Chancellor, St. Aloysius (Deemed to be University), Mangaluru.
This partnership seeks to promote collaborative initiatives in skill development, research, innovation, entrepreneurship, certification programmes, faculty development, industry engagement and academic collaborations. The MoU is designed to bridge the gap between academia and industry while creating meaningful opportunities for students and professionals to develop future-ready competencies.
The MoU signing formed a key highlight of the World Youth Skills Day 2026 celebrations under the theme “Empowering Youth Through Skills, Innovation & Employability.” Addressing the gathering, the dignitaries emphasized that strong collaborations between educational institutions and industry are essential for preparing young professionals with practical knowledge, innovation-driven thinking, and enhanced employability in an increasingly competitive global environment.
The programme was graced by Shekhar Pujari, Dr. Devaraj K., Shri P. A. Jose, Shamlal Yermal, Dr. Laxmish Rai, P. Suresh, and Dr. Steevan Pinto.
Dr. Ronald Sequeira, Executive Director, IISDR and Dr Roshan Fredrick Dsouza, St. Aloysius (Deemed to be University) coordinated the programme. Faculty members, students, academicians, industry representatives, and invited guests participated in the event, making the occasion a significant milestone in promoting collaborative excellence.
The representatives of both institutions expressed confidence that the partnership would pave the way for impactful academic and industry-led initiatives, contributing to quality education, enhanced employability, research excellence, entrepreneurship, and sustainable youth empowerment. The collaboration reflects the common vision of IISDR and St. Aloysius (Deemed to be University) to nurture skilled, innovative, and socially responsible professionals capable of contributing to national development.