Manipal, 30 January 2024: Manipal Institute of Technology (MIT), a constituent institute of Manipal Academy of Higher Education, and DLabs Incubator Association at the Indian School of Business in Hyderabad have signed a memorandum of understanding to collaborate and enhance grassroots innovations and startups.

Commander Anil Rana, Director of MIT, highlighted that the collaboration would provide essential support and mentorship to MIT students. In response to the growing interest in entrepreneurship among students, MIT has introduced a five-year integrated dual degree with MTech (Entrepreneurship), offered by the Department of Humanities and Management. He mentioned that the partnership with DLabs strengthens the current startup ecosystem at Manipal, aiding students in launching their own startups.

Saumya Kumar, CEO of DLabs, emphasized the importance of this MoU with Manipal Academy of Higher Education, calling it a very important step in promoting entrepreneurship in India. This alliance aims to create a thriving ecosystem for innovative ideas and empower budding entrepreneurs. The partnership will facilitate the sharing of resources and expertise, thereby strengthening both institutions' roles in fostering a culture of entrepreneurship.

This groundbreaking partnership aims to strengthen entrepreneurship and encourage innovation among MIT students. Prominent figures attended the event, including Dr P Giridhar Kini - Registrar, Manipal Academy of Higher Education, Saumya Kumar - CEO, DLabs, Suresh K Bandi, Associate Vice President, Programs & Partnerships of I-Venture at ISB, Dr Narayana Sabhahit - Pro Vice-Chancellor, Technology & Science, Dr Vinod V Thomas - Registrar, Evaluation, Cdr (Dr) Anil Rana - Director, MIT, Dr Somashekara Bhat - Joint Director, MIT, Dr Yogesh Pai P - Head of Humanities & Management, MIT, Dr Sriram K V - Associate Director of Industry Liaison, Placement, and Practice School, MIT, Dr Mohammad Zuber - Chief Innovation Officer, Manipal Academy of Higher Education, and Dr Manesh Thomas - CEO, Manipal-GoK Bio incubator, among other esteemed members.