The MoU places OPA representatives directly on KU’s academic boards and committees, giving the industry a decisive role in shaping course content. Under Clause 3.2, OPA becomes a key stakeholder in designing innovative syllabi, teaching methodologies, and placement-driven training modules. Clause 3.7 mandates the association to conduct faculty development programs based on National Occupational Standards, ensuring KU educators receive hands-on industrial exposure and insights into cutting-edge advancements such as digital printing, sustainable packaging, and emerging smart technologies. The collaboration aligns closely with India’s National Education Policy (NEP) 2020, which emphasizes experiential learning and industry engagement.

The agreement was formalized at a ceremony held in the KU Committee Room. It was signed by Dr. Virender Pal, Registrar of Kurukshetra University and Prof. Kamal Chopra, General Secretary of OPA. Senior officials in attendance included IMCMT Director Prof. Maha Singh Poonia, Ashwani Gupta, President of the All India Federation of Printers & Packagers and OPA Executive Member Sudhir Chopra.

Speaking on the occasion, KU Vice-Chancellor Prof. Somnath Sachdeva praised the move as a catalyst for academic transformation. “This MoU accelerates NEP goals by integrating real-time industry insights into our academic framework, empowering students with practical expertise, fostering startups, and guaranteeing robust employability in a sector vital to India’s $30 billion printing economy,” he said.

OPA General Secretary Prof. Kamal Chopra highlighted the association’s commitment to deep engagement. “Beyond curriculum co-creation and faculty training, OPA will participate in every institute program on printing technology—offering expert lectures, workshops, and labs. Our 350+ member units are fully open for student internships, site visits, and joint research, laying the foundation for innovations like eco-friendly packaging solutions and AI-driven print workflows,” he stated.

The MoU also opens doors for global collaborations, including potential tie-ups with institutions such as the Beijing Institute of Graphic Communication. It covers joint research initiatives under Clause 3.5 and continuous expert guidance for KU printing events under Clause 3.6. Notably, the agreement emphasizes non-financial, impact-focused cooperation, governed by Indian laws with provision for arbitration to settle disputes amicably.

Kurukshetra University, a UGC Category-I multidisciplinary institution established in 1956, continues to expand its academic footprint in emerging domains. With OPA—registered under the Societies Act since 1995—joining hands, this partnership is expected to benefit thousands of students while strengthening India’s position as a competitive global printing hub.