Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA: Penn Engineering and Ashoka University have expanded their long-standing academic relationship by signing a new memorandum of understanding aimed at deepening collaboration in engineering, applied sciences, and interdisciplinary research.
The updated agreement introduces several new initiatives, including a 4+1 master’s pathway that will enable qualified undergraduate students from Ashoka University to complete an accelerated master’s program at Penn Engineering, pending admission approval. The MoU formalises and strengthens academic ties that the two institutions have maintained for over ten years.
As part of the partnership, both universities will support faculty exchanges, collaborative research opportunities, short-term research placements, joint academic programs, shared workshops and conferences, and greater access to scholarly resources.
Penn Engineering dean Vijay Kumar said the collaboration aligns closely with both institutions’ dedication to cross-disciplinary education. He emphasised that the expanded partnership will foster new research avenues and create stronger graduate-level opportunities for Ashoka students.
RCA professor Boon Thau Loo noted that the agreement will help integrate Ashoka’s scholars more deeply into Penn’s research culture, highlighting the value of the new 4+1 program and enhanced joint research efforts.
Ashoka University leaders described the MoU as a significant step in strengthening academic offerings in rapidly evolving fields. Vice Chancellor Somak Raychaudhury pointed out that the collaboration will enhance teaching and research in areas such as artificial intelligence and data science, thanks to engagement with global research networks.
Pramath Raj Sinha, a Penn alumnus and founder of Ashoka University, said the renewed partnership reflects the longstanding connection between the institutions. He noted that Penn and Penn Engineering have supported Ashoka since the launch of its Young India Fellowship in 2011, and the new agreement marks an important evolution in their shared focus on research excellence, academic innovation, and global engagement.
The MoU signing reaffirmed both universities’ commitment to interdisciplinary collaboration and their intention to jointly address global challenges through advancements in science and technology.
This latest development builds on previous initiatives established through the Global Gateway Program, which provided Young India Fellowship graduates the chance to pursue a Master of Liberal Arts at Penn. Over the years, the collaboration has continued through student exchanges, research involvement, and ongoing faculty engagement.
