News from NUCSER | Govt of Karnataka sets up the Centre of Excellence in Aquamarine Innovation at Nitte

The Department of IT, BT and S&T, Govt. of Karnataka, in collaboration with Nitte (Deemed to be University), has established the NITTE-GOK Centre of Excellence in Aquamarine Innovation (NITTE-GOK COE | AQUAMARIN) at the Nitte University Centre for Science Education & Research (NUCSER). Envisioned as a hub for research, innovation, capacity building and outreach in AquaBio innovations and Translational Research, the Centre aims to bring together scientists, industry experts and policymakers to work towards economic growth while ensuring the sustainability of marine ecosystems in Karnataka.

The Centre was inaugurated on 24th September 2025 by Shri Priyank M Kharge, Hon`ble Minister of Electronics, IT, BT & S&T and RDPR, along with Shri Rahul Sharanappa Sankanur, Managing Director, KITS. Addressing the gathering, Shri Kharge highlighted the provisions of the Karnataka Biotechnology Policy, urging academic institutions to pioneer research that can position Mangaluru and India as global leaders in Biotechnology. He applauded the efforts of Nitte for harnessing indigenous potential and driving global excellence.

Shri Rahul Sankanur introduced the Local Economy Accelerator Program (LEAP) and ELEVATE programs of the Govt. of Karnataka, which focus on identifying and nurturing innovations and entrepreneurship. He emphasized the critical role of translational research and how Centres of Excellence like AQUAMARIN can make a real impact. The inauguration was graced by Mr. Vinayak Karbari, Chief Executive Officer of Dakshina Kannada Zilla Panchayat On behalf of Nitte University, Pro-Chancellor Prof. (Dr) Shantaram Shetty, Vice Chancellor Prof. (Dr) M S Moodithaya, and Prof. (Dr) Harsha Halahalli, Registrar assured the dignitaries that the University would extend its full commitment to achieving the vision of the CoE.

The Centre of Excellence will be led by Prof. (Dr) Anirban Chakraborty, Director, NUCSER as the Principal Investigator, supported by an eight-member team that includes three marine biology scientists, two administrative personnel and three office staff.