Robert Gordon University (RGU) has been awarded funding from the UK Government to establish a training framework for the Indian energy sector with a focus on accelerating skills development in deep-water subsea.
The university announced the funding after it welcomed the Indian Minister for Petroleum and Natural Gas, Dharmendra Pradhan, and his delegation to its Garthdee campus in Aberdeen last week on Wednesday, as a part of a three day visit to the UK organised by the Department for International Trade (DIT) and Scottish Development International (SDI).
The Prosperity Funding was awarded to RGU following India’s commitment to reduce its energy imports and the country’s intention to fully exploit its field development plans for the deepwater block in the Krishna-Godavari Basin offshore eastern India.
Professor Paul de Leeuw , director of RGU’s Oil and Gas Institute, said: “India has an ambitious and exciting agenda for its oil and gas industry, which will require significant investment in local skills development to ensure the country can meet its growing energy demand.
“We are delighted to undertake this important project, which will help build the foundations upon which India can grow its skill base to fully exploit and benefit from its hydrocarbon reserves, strengthen its economy, drive innovation and provide increased employability prospects for its people.”
The six month project will see RGU conduct a feasibility study, which will focus on increasing the understanding of the current subsea skills gaps in India. The study will also identify opportunities for good practice sharing and provide recommendations to position India for success in delivering its ambitious agenda for the hydrocarbon industry.