New Delhi: Merck has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Manipal Academy of Higher Education (MAHE) to strengthen collaboration between academia and industry and build a future-ready talent pipeline for the healthcare sector. The partnership aims to bridge the gap between classroom learning and industry requirements by equipping students with practical skills and exposure to real-world research and development (R&D) environments.
As part of the collaboration, Merck Healthcare R&D India launched its flagship Catalyst Program at MAHE. The initiative is a structured three-month training programme designed to provide students with hands-on learning, domain knowledge and industry insights through expert-led sessions by Merck professionals. The programme will be delivered through MAHE’s academic ecosystem, drawing on its interdisciplinary strengths across health sciences, life sciences and allied domains.
Speaking about the MoU, Suneela Thatte, Vice President and Head of Merck Healthcare R&D India, said,”The collaboration reflects the company’s commitment to strengthening the link between academic excellence and industry relevance while preparing students for professional careers in healthcare research.”
She added that Merck has seen encouraging outcomes from similar collaborations with institutions such as JSS Academy of Higher Education & Research and Dayananda Sagar University, and looks forward to building on that momentum with MAHE.
Merck said the partnership is part of its broader strategy to strengthen external collaborations and build a sustainable pipeline of healthcare R&D talent in India.
