Bridging the Bay: IIT Delhi Sets Sail for Sri Lanka with New Research Hub

Updated: October 21, 2025 15:45

Image Source: India Today

IIT Delhi has proposed the creation of a Sri Lanka Academic and Research Hub to deepen bilateral academic collaboration. During Sri Lankan PM Harini Amarasuriya’s visit, the institute showcased its innovation ecosystem and startup success, aiming to foster joint research, student exchange, and regional development in science and technology.

Academic Diplomacy in Action: IIT Delhi Proposes Sri Lanka Research Hub to Expand Regional Innovation

In a strategic move to enhance regional academic cooperation, the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Delhi has proposed the establishment of a Sri Lanka Academic and Research Hub. The announcement came during the visit of Sri Lankan Prime Minister Dr. Harini Amarasuriya to the IIT Delhi campus on October 17, 2025, marking a significant step toward South Asian educational integration.

Key Highlights from the Proposal and Visit:

Strengthening Bilateral Academic Ties

The proposed hub aims to facilitate joint research projects, faculty exchange programs, and student mobility between Indian and Sri Lankan institutions.

PM Amarasuriya expressed keen interest in collaborative innovation, especially in IT, engineering, and climate science.

Showcase of IIT Delhi’s Innovation Ecosystem

The Sri Lankan delegation toured the Research and Innovation Park, interacting with faculty, international students, and incubated startups.

Startups like CYRAN AI and Cluix, nurtured at IIT Delhi, were presented as examples of cutting-edge research commercialization.

Focus on Regional Development

The hub is envisioned as a platform for capacity building, targeting technology transfer, sustainable development, and digital transformation in Sri Lanka.

It aligns with India’s broader goal of academic diplomacy and neighborhood-first policy.

Cultural and Educational Exchange

The initiative also seeks to promote cross-cultural learning, with plans for joint seminars, workshops, and language immersion programs.

IIT Delhi reaffirmed its commitment to inclusive international education, especially with South Asian partners.

Next Steps and Institutional Support

Discussions are underway to finalize the location, funding model, and governance structure of the proposed hub.

Both governments are expected to sign a memorandum of understanding (MoU) in early 2026 to formalize the collaboration.

This initiative reflects IIT Delhi’s growing role as a regional academic leader, and its commitment to fostering innovation-driven partnerships across borders.

Sources: NDTV Education, Hindustan Times

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