UPL University of Sustainable Technology (an initiative by 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 strengthen knowledge exchange in sustainable food systems and climate change. The renewed collaboration builds on an existing partnership. It aims to create a dynamic platform for training, research, and academic engagement between students and faculty from India and the UK.
Faculty Training and Knowledge Sharing
As part of this initiative, selected faculty members from UPL University will travel to Oxford each year starting in summer 2026. They will undergo specialized training focused on curriculum development and research-based learning. In parallel, experts from OICSD will enrich UPL University’s academic programs by delivering an extra-curricular seminar series covering critical global topics, including:
*Artificial Intelligence
*Sustainable Development
*Climate Action
*Technology Innovation
For the upcoming academic year, students can expect two in-person and two online lectures exclusively designed for UPL University.
Leadership Perspectives on the Partnership
Jai Shroff, Chairman and Group CEO of UPL Ltd., said, “At UPL, we believe knowledge sharing and collaboration are essential to solving the world’s most pressing sustainability challenges. This partnership between UPL University and OICSD creates a powerful platform for learning and innovation, empowering the next generation of students and faculty in India to contribute to global sustainability goals.”
Shroff emphasized that India is uniquely positioned to address global research gaps. He added that such collaborations will strengthen UPL University’s global presence. They will also help establish it as a hub for international academic exchange in sustainability and technology.
Baroness Jan Royall, Principal of Somerville College and Executive Director of OICSD, added, “Our renewed partnership with UPL offers an exciting opportunity to make strategic advances in climate-resilient agriculture, innovation, and environmental stewardship. We are proud to deepen this vital exchange of knowledge and ideas between Oxford and India.”
Ashok Panjwani, President of UPL University, highlighted, “This partnership will offer direct learning opportunities with OICSD and enable participation in global discussions on sustainability and technology. It will inspire our academic community and reinforce our commitment to building sustainable solutions for the future.”
A Legacy of Collaboration
The partnership builds on UPL and OICSD’s earlier collaborations, including the OpenAg Symposium launched in 2021. This platform brings together leaders from government, industry, and academia to explore the intersection of climate change and agriculture. The most recent edition was held on September 18, 2025, at Said Business School, University of Oxford. It featured His Excellency Dr. Julius Maada Bio, President of Sierra Leone, as the keynote speaker.
Expanding Global Academic Partnerships
As per the press release, beyond the MoU, UPL University has developed multiple international collaborations. These aim to strengthen its curriculum in sustainability, environmental compliance, automation, robotics, and process engineering. Through these initiatives, the university provides cutting-edge knowledge, practical skills, and global perspectives. These efforts prepare students and faculty to lead in a rapidly changing world.
