Airbus signs MoU with Tribhuvan University to boost Nepal's aerospace capacity

Dhaka: European aerospace giant Airbus and Tribhuvan University, Nepal's largest public university, have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to strengthen the Himalayan nation's human capital in aerospace.

The partnership will focus on academic development, research, training, industry exposure, and joint initiatives in aerospace technologies.

Jürgen Westermeier, President and Managing Director of Airbus South Asia, and Prof. Sushil Bahadur Bajracharya, Vice-Chancellor of Tribhuvan University, signed the MoU. Sasmit Pokharel, Nepal's Minister of Education and Sports, and France's Ambassador to Nepal, H.E. Virginie Corteval, were also present.

"A core element of a strong aerospace ecosystem is talent development," said Westermeier. He added that the partnership would bring Airbus' global expertise to support capacity building in Nepal, particularly in aerospace engineering and digital technologies.

Bajracharya noted that the collaboration comes at a turning point for Nepal's aviation sector. He expressed confidence that working with Airbus would help strengthen and develop university curricula and ultimately enhance the country's aviation capabilities.

Under the agreement, both institutions will collaborate on research, teaching, and training to deepen students' understanding of scientific, technological, and management topics in aerospace and aviation.

They will jointly support curriculum development related to aerospace, aviation, and digital technologies, including artificial intelligence, machine learning, advanced analytics, and cybersecurity.

The two sides will also explore industry exposure opportunities through Airbus experts, partnerships with international institutes, and internship and placement opportunities for students.

Additionally, both parties plan to organize joint events such as symposiums, technical festivals, conferences, and workshops focused on aerospace research and innovation.