Daijiworld Media Network – Mangaluru

Mangaluru, May 6: In a move aimed at addressing key urban challenges such as solid waste management, traffic congestion, and infrastructure issues, the Dakshina Kannada (DK) district administration has officially signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the National Institute of Technology Karnataka (NITK), Surathkal.

The MoU was signed on Tuesday at the deputy commissioner's office by DC Mullai Muhilan and NITK director Prof B Ravi.

Speaking on the occasion, DC Mullai Muhilan stated that the partnership aims to leverage the intellectual and technical capabilities of academic institutions to support the district's development and problem-solving efforts. He said that while the initial agreement is with NITK, plans are in place to gradually extend similar collaborations to other educational institutions.

Under this agreement, NITK students, under the guidance of faculty, will develop practical solutions to local-level issues such as solid waste disposal, traffic problems, and healthcare challenges. The focus will be on problems that can be addressed and implemented effectively at the local administrative level.

The DC noted that this collaboration will not only promote student awareness on social issues but also inspire various startups and contribute to the overall development of the city through technical and administrative support.

NITK director Prof B Ravi expressed confidence that the partnership would help design effective and technically sound solutions for Mangaluru’s civic challenges and that students would be actively involved in the process.

The event was also attended by zilla panchayat CEO Dr Anand K, Mangaluru City Corporation commissioner Ravichandra Naik, and Mangaluru Smart City Limited MD Raju K, among others.