Cochin University of Science and Technology (CUSAT) has implemented the Professor of
Practice (PoP) scheme in alignment with the University Grants Commission (UGC)
initiative to integrate industry and professional expertise into higher education.
The objective of the scheme is to bridge the gap between theoretical learning and real-world
application by engaging eminent professionals from diverse fields such as engineering,
science, management, commerce, law, civil services, social sciences, media, and arts. These
experts contribute to curriculum design, teaching, research, innovation, and industry
collaboration, thereby enhancing students’ employability and institutional linkages with
society and industry.
As per the guidelines approved by the Syndicate, Professors of Practice can be engaged in
three categories:
1. Sponsored by Industries – funded and supported by industry partners.
2. Funded by CUSAT – remunerated by the University from its own resources.
3. Honorary basis – voluntary service without financial commitment.
The scheme allows the engagement of professionals with at least 15 years of distinguished
experience in their respective fields, without the requirement of formal academic
qualifications or publications. Their role is to strengthen experiential learning, promote
entrepreneurship, and foster applied research and consultancy.
Selection shall be done by a committee chaired by the Vice-Chancellor. Engagements are
made for up to one year, extendable to a maximum of three years.
Through this initiative, CUSAT aims to enrich its academic ecosystem, build stronger
academia-industry partnerships, and enhance the relevance and quality of higher education in
alignment with national education policy goals.
Guidelines