The Cochin University of Science and Technology (Cusat) and the University of Ruhuna (UoR) have signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) for academic and research collaborations. The MoU covers specific academic exchange and partnership and research collaborations in areas of fisheries, marine science and technology, marine engineering and naval architecture. The two universities also agreed to strengthen academic curriculum, research capabilities and financial support. Gopal Baglay, High Commissioner of India in Sri Lanka, and Dipin P.R., Consulate General of India, Hambantota, played a significant role in coordinating and successfully completing the MoU by the two universities. The Cusat Vice Chancellor and the Dean of Faculty of Marine Sciences also held discussions on the proposed academic and research initiatives of the two universities with Sri Lankan Education Minister A.D. Susil Premajayantha. Mr. Premajayantha expressed immense satisfaction on the collaboration by the two universities and solicited support of the Indian High Commission and Cusat to strengthen current academic and research capabilities of UoR as well as the Ocean University of Sri Lanka.