Media Release
Manipal, May 6: Manipal Academy of Higher Education (MAHE), an Institution of Eminence Deemed to be University, recently signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Special Olympics Bharat in a virtual signing ceremony, marking a significant step towards promoting sports inclusivity, collaboration, and social impact.
The partnership establishes a framework for joint initiatives that empower individuals with intellectual disabilities through education, awareness programmes, and community engagement. Both institutions will work together to create opportunities that promote dignity, participation, and holistic development.
The virtual ceremony was attended by Dipak Natali, president and managing director, Special Olympics Asia Pacific; Dr Mallika Nadda, president, Special Olympics Bharat; Dr H S Ballal, pro chancellor, MAHE; Dr Sharath K Rao, vice chancellor, MAHE, Lt Gen (Dr) M D Venkatesh, VSM (Retd), advisor MEMG, Bengaluru, Dr P Giridhar Kini, registrar, MAHE; and D G Chaudhary, general secretary, Special Olympics Bharat.
Dr Mallika Nadda and Dr P Giridhar Kini conducted the symbolic signing of the MoU during the ceremony, underscoring both organisations' commitment to collaborating on impactful programmes that benefit the community.
Through this collaboration, MAHE and Special Olympics Bharat will jointly design and implement initiatives that enhance awareness, build capacities, and promote inclusive practices across educational and social platforms. The partnership also aims to inspire individuals and institutions to contribute meaningfully toward a compassionate and inclusive future.
About Manipal Academy of Higher Education:
Manipal Academy of Higher Education (MAHE) is an Institution of Eminence Deemed to be University. MAHE offers over 400 specialisations across the Health Sciences (HS), Management, Law, Humanities & Social Sciences (MLHS), and Technology & Science (T&S) streams through its constituent units at campuses in Manipal, Mangalore, Bengaluru, Jamshedpur, and Dubai. With a remarkable track record in academics, state-of-the-art infrastructure, and significant contributions to research, MAHE has earned recognition and acclaim both nationally and internationally. In 2020, the Ministry of Education, Government of India, awarded MAHE the prestigious Institution of Eminence status. Currently ranked 3rd in the National Institutional Ranking Framework (NIRF), 2025 rankings, MAHE is the preferred choice for students seeking a transformative learning experience and enriching campus life, as well as for national & multi-national corporates looking for top talent.