The Faculty of Science and Engineering, in partnership with Curtin College and the International Sponsored Students Unit, recently hosted a morning tea welcoming Indigenous students from the Gadchiroli region in India.

Sponsored by Lloyds Metals and Energy Ltd, the students began their studies at Curtin College and are now transitioning into courses across Science and Engineering, Health, and Business. Two cohorts are already settling into their studies at Curtin, with a third group expected in 2026.

To strengthen this growing relationship, the Faculty’s Pro Vice-Chancellor Professor Mark Ogden and Dean Global Professor Sambit Datta travelled to India to sign a Memorandum of Understanding with Gondwana University, located in the Gadchiroli region. Known for its rich mineral reserves, the region is fast becoming a hub for iron and steel manufacturing.

Through this new partnership, Curtin, Lloyds Metals and Gondwana University will work together on student and faculty exchange programs, curriculum development and knowledge sharing to support sustainable development in the region.

This collaboration marks the beginning of a significant partnership between academia and industry, to make a difference for the people of Gadchiroli. Thank you to everyone who contributed to this meaningful global initiative.

A group of people sitting and standing on a long staircase.
Students from Gadchiroli along with staff at Curtin College.
A row of people sitting at a desk in front of flags of India. At the far right are two people holding up MoU documents to an audience.
MoU signing with (L-R). Chief Minister of Maharashtra Hon. Shri Devendra G. Fadnavis; Governor of Maharashtra State and Chancellor of the Gondwana University Hon. Shri C. P. Radhakrishnan; Minister of Higher and Technical Education, Government of Maharashtra Hon. Shri Chandrakant Dada Patil; Gondwana University Registrar Hon. Dr Anil K Hirekhan; and Professor Mark Ogden.