Ajeenkya DY Patil University Defence Research and Innovation Foundation (ADYPU DRIF) has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Airports Authority of India (AAI) to revolutionise aviation education. This partnership aims to bridge the gap between academic learning and industry requirements, providing students with hands-on experience in aviation operations, security and emerging technologies.

Dr Ajeenkya DY Patil emphasised that this collaboration will empower students with real-world skills, ensuring they are well-prepared for careers in the rapidly evolving aviation sector. "As a visionary leader in the field of education and innovation, I see education as the driving force that shapes industries, transforms economies and nurtures leaders of tomorrow. Infrastructure expansion has been pivotal in sustaining this momentum. The government has successfully added 75 new airports in the last decade, bringing the total to 149 as of 2024, with ambitious plans to increase this number to 220 within the next five to seven years. This rapid progress underscores India’s commitment to making aviation a driver of economic and technological advancement," he said.

"This collaboration with AAI is not just about internships—it is about inspiring a new generation to dream bigger, to engage with real-world challenges and to redefine the future of civil aviation. Our vision is to create a learning ecosystem where students don't just learn about the world—they actively contribute to its evolution," he added.

Dr Nishakant Ojha, an expert in aerospace security, highlighted India's booming aviation industry and the need for a skilled workforce.

The MoU will facilitate internships, research projects and training programmes, fostering innovation and employment opportunities for students. This initiative strengthens industry-academia synergy, reinforcing India's position as a global aviation hub.