KUST, Kohat chamber sign MoU to strengthen industry–academia linkages

KOHAT, Jun 10 (APP): The Kohat University of Science and Technology (KUST) and the Kohat Chamber of Commerce and Industry (KCCI) have signed a three-year Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) aimed at promoting collaboration between academia and industry to enhance research, innovation, and skill development.

The agreement was signed on Wednesday by KUST Vice Chancellor Prof. Dr. Syed Zaffar Ilyas and KCCI President Rasheed Paracha during a formal ceremony held to bridge the gap between the academic sector and the local business community.

Under the MoU, both institutions will collaborate in key areas including joint research and development projects to address industrial challenges, provision of internship and practical training opportunities for students, and exchange of scientific and technical knowledge. The partnership also includes capacity-building initiatives such as seminars, conferences, workshops, and webinars involving both academics and industry professionals.

Speaking on the occasion, KCCI President Rasheed Paracha emphasized that strong academia-industry linkages are essential for economic growth, noting that the initiative would help equip students with practical skills while providing research-based solutions to industrial needs. Vice Chancellor Prof. Dr. Syed Zaffar Ilyas said the university aims to align academic research with socio-economic and industrial development, expressing confidence that the collaboration would open new opportunities for students, faculty, and the business community.

The signing ceremony was attended by senior representatives from both institutions, including Director ORIC Dr. Zeeshan Bangash, Manager Muhammad Rizwan, former KCCI President Asad Javed, and other prominent business and academic figures.