The agreement will promote joint research, technology exchange, industry–academia collaboration and skill development in technical textiles.
The Indian Technical Textile Association (ITTA) and the University of Huddersfield, UK, have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU). The agreement aims to strengthen cooperation between India’s technical textile industry and UK academia.
The MoU was signed on 16 October 2026 at The Orchid Hotel in Vile Parle, Mumbai. It will create opportunities for research, knowledge sharing and technology collaboration in the technical textiles sector.
ITTA and University of Huddersfield Focus on Collaboration
The partnership will bring together industry expertise and academic knowledge. Both organisations aim to support research and development in technical textiles.
The key areas of collaboration include:
- Joint research and development
- Knowledge and technology exchange
- Industry–academia engagement
- Technical interactions and collaborative projects
- Skill development and capacity building
These initiatives aim to connect industry needs with academic research. They will also help create opportunities for innovation and knowledge sharing.
Key Representatives Attend the MoU Signing
Ms. Tracy Brabin, Mayor of West Yorkshire, attended the signing ceremony. Prof. Parik Goswami, Director of the Technical Textiles Research Centre at the University of Huddersfield, UK, was also present.
ITTA was represented by Shri Mahesh Kudav, Chairman, and Dr. Nandan Kumar, Vice-Chairman. Shri Anilkumar Vasupillai, Executive Director of ITTA, also attended the event.
ITTA members and other distinguished invitees joined the programme. Representatives from both organisations delivered addresses before the formal signing of the MoU.
The event also included a group photograph and a networking session with ITTA members. Shri Anilkumar Vasupillai delivered the vote of thanks.
Partnership to Support Technical Textile Research
The MoU provides a framework for both organisations to explore future collaborative projects. These efforts will focus on research, technology development and the exchange of technical knowledge.
The partnership also aims to encourage closer engagement between researchers and industry professionals. This approach can help align academic expertise with the practical needs of the technical textile industry.
Through this collaboration, ITTA and the University of Huddersfield intend to expand opportunities for research, innovation and skill development. The agreement marks a step towards stronger cooperation between India’s technical textile sector and UK academia.