In a significant move towards fostering industry-oriented education and technological innovation, the PSNA College of Engineering and Technology has signed two strategic Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) with Garuda Aerospace Limited, Chennai, one of India’s leading drone technology companies.

The agreements were formally signed by college trustee Surya Raguraam and Garuda Aerospace Limited chief operating officer R Vijaya Kumar, marking the beginning of a long-term partnership to empower students with cutting-edge knowledge and practical expertise in drone technology.

The first MoU focuses on establishing a Centre of Excellence (CoE) at the PSNA campus. The Centre will serve as a dedicated hub for innovation, applied research, industry-driven student projects, advanced laboratory facilities, Faculty Development Programmes (FDPs), technical workshops, and collaborative research initiatives in emerging drone technologies.

To enhance practical learning, PSNA has purchased advanced drones for the Centre of Excellence, including an Agri Drone (Medium Class) and a customizable UAV (DIY Drone Kit). These drones will enable students to gain hands-on experience and develop industry-relevant skills in drone technology.

The second MoU establishes a DGCA-approved Remote Pilot Training Organisation (RPTO) at PSNA. Through this initiative, students and faculty members will have the opportunity to undergo certified drone pilot training and obtain nationally recognised certifications, enhancing their professional competencies and career prospects in the rapidly expanding drone sector.

The collaboration is expected to bridge the gap between classroom learning and industry requirements by providing students with experiential learning opportunities, industry mentorship and exposure to next-generation technologies. It will also encourage innovation, entrepreneurship and research in areas where drone technology is playing an increasingly vital role.

During the MoU signing ceremony Garuda Aerospace vice president Sanjay Pal, college principal D. Vasudevan, faculty members Chinnasamy and K. Muralidharan along with others were present on the occasion.

This landmark partnership reinforces PSNA’s commitment to delivering future-ready education by integrating academic excellence with industrial expertise. The establishment of the Centre of Excellence and the DGCA-approved RPTO marks a major milestone in preparing students for emerging opportunities in the drone ecosystem while contributing to innovation, research, and technological advancement in India, said Mr Surya Raghuraam..

Published - July 31, 2026 09:06 pm IST