IIT Hyderabad and ATA Sign Historic Memorandum of Understanding

Washington, D.C., September 25, 2025 – In a historic initiative to provide global exposure to students in the United States, the American Telugu Association (ATA) has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the esteemed Indian Institute of Technology Hyderabad (IITH), a 16-year-old institute, ranked #7 in Engineering and #6 in innovation in the National Institutional Ranking Framework (NIRF) of India.

The agreement, finalized on September 25, 2025, in Washington, D.C., marks a significant collaboration aimed at creating internship opportunities for students of the Telugu diaspora at IITH’s world-class campus in Hyderabad.
The MoU was signed by Prof. B. S. Murty, Director of IITH, and Mr. Jayanth Challa, President of ATA. The agreement establishes a framework for internships ranging from as long as a few weeks to one year at IIT Hyderabad, with a validity period of three years and the potential for extension. This will also pave the way for research collaboration and improving the US India people to people collaboration.

“We are thrilled to collaborate with ATA, which aligns with our ongoing efforts to nurture global talent and foster meaningful research exposure. This is the first time IITH is signing an agreement outside of academic institution,” said Prof. B. S. Murty, Director of IIT Hyderabad. “This MoU strengthens the bridge between ATA and IITH, opening up exciting career-building opportunities for students from the Telugu diaspora.”

Mr. Jayanth Challa, President of ATA, emphasized, “This collaboration is a monumental step in creating pathways for students to gain exposure to cutting-edge research and innovation. The partnership empowers our youth with valuable experience and insight into the fast-evolving world of technology and research.”

Under the terms of the MoU, IITH will offer internship opportunities to students from the US, providing the necessary institutional, logistical, and infrastructural support. ATA will assist in identifying eligible students for the program. IITH will charge a nominal fee per student per month to cover other operational costs.

This MoU between ATA and IIT Hyderabad sets a precedent for future collaborations in research, and innovation that will enrich both Indian and American educational landscapes, preparing the next generation of leaders to navigate the challenges of a globalized world.