Pondicherry University and Zoho Corporation have signed a Memorandum of Understanding to promote collaborative research in material science and energy technologies. The partnership aims to combine the university’s academic expertise in material science and nanotechnology with Zoho’s focus on long-term research in advanced materials and energy storage systems. The initiative is expected to promote innovation, develop skilled talent, and create high-paying job opportunities in rural and semi-urban areas.

The MoU was signed by Pondicherry University Registrar Dr. R. Gunasekaran and Zoho Chief Financial Officer J. Anand, in the presence of Puducherry Home Minister A. Namassivayam and other dignitaries. Pondicherry University Vice Chancellor Prof. Prakash Babu said that the collaboration would help bridge academic research with industry requirements and lead to transformative outcomes. Zoho Chief Scientist Sridhar Vembu highlighted the company’s shift from software to advanced areas such as material science, metallurgy and energy systems, stressing the need for technological self-reliance.