Pimpri Chinchwad University and KOSME ink MoU for Indo–Korean Cooperation in Workforce Development, Startups, and SMEs Support
Pune, India – In a significant step to boost Indo–Korean collaboration, Pimpri Chinchwad University (PCU), Pune, and the Korea SMEs and Startups Agency (KOSME), New Delhi, have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) aimed at creating synergies in workforce development, employability, startup incubation, and industrial cooperation.
The signing ceremony took place at the PCU Pune campus, where Jae Kyeong Lee, Director of KOSME Global Business Centre, New Delhi, and Harshvardhan Patil, the Chancellor of PCU, formalised the agreement in the presence of esteemed dignitaries.
Also present on the occasion were HYoo Dong Wan, Consul General of the Republic of Korea in Mumbai, Dr Girish Desai, the Executive Director of PCET, Cheol Lee, the Deputy Consul General, Sachin Itkar, the governing body member PCU, Dr Sandeep Thepade, the pro vice chancellor PCU, Ms Yujin Han, the Chief Advisor, Korean Facilitation Center in PCU & the CEO, Starajin, Richard Son, the CEO of SK International, Seung Jung Kang, the Director of I-Kets and many respectable special guests from Pune.
As per the MoU conditions, both sides will make joint efforts to develop and promote a range of initiatives that connect academia, industry, and business opportunities. The collaboration will focus on enhancing workforce training and employment linkages by preparing PCU students and Indian youth for opportunities with Korean SMEs entering India. Special emphasis will be placed on Korean Business Culture (KBC) programs, internships, skill-building, and direct employment pathways.
The MoU also envisions strong support for Korean SMEs seeking to establish a foothold in Maharashtra, particularly in Pune and Mumbai. PCU, through its Korea Facilitation Centre (KFC), will extend advisory services, incubation facilities, office space, and assistance with regulatory compliance—ensuring smoother market entry and expansion for Korean enterprises.
This collaboration is expected to benefit PCU students by providing them with the KOSME KBC (Korea Business Culture) skill development program, direct exposure to global business practices, internship and employment opportunities with Korean companies, and hands-on experience through innovation-driven projects.
For Korean SMEs, the partnership provides easier access to India’s growing market, access to skilled local talent, institutional support for business setup, and a platform for collaboration with Indian startups and industries.
Speaking on the occasion, Jae Kyeong Lee said, “This MoU is more than a document—it is a bridge between two dynamic ecosystems. By combining India’s talent pool with Korea’s innovative SMEs and startups, we aim to create a sustainable platform for collaboration, growth, and mutual prosperity.”
Echoing this sentiment, Harshvardhan Patil, Chancellor of PCU, stated, “Pimpri Chinchwad University has always been at the forefront of academic–industry linkages. Partnering with KOSME allows us to bring global opportunities directly to our students and faculty, while simultaneously supporting Korean businesses in establishing themselves in India. This collaboration is a win-win for both nations.”
The PCU–KOSME Korea Facilitation Centre (KFC), launched under this partnership, will serve as the focal point for all joint activities, encompassing workforce development, entrepreneurship programs, cultural, and academic exchanges.
This MoU not only strengthens bilateral academic and industrial partnerships but also aligns with the broader vision of deepening India–Korea ties in education, business, and entrepreneurship. By leveraging the strengths of both institutions, the partnership is set to empower students, entrepreneurs, and SMEs, driving long-term cooperation and sustainable growth between the two countries.
