Kollam, September 10, 2026: Kerala Fibre Optic Network Limited (KFON) and Government Polytechnic College, Ezhukone, signs a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to strengthen industry-academia collaboration in broadband technology, with a focus on skill development, technical training, research and innovation.
Under the MoU, a Centre for Excellence (CoE) for FTTH and Broadband Technologies will be established at the college. The centre will focus on FTTH and GPON network planning and design, optical fibre installation and testing, broadband infrastructure development and technical training, while promoting research and technological innovation.
The partnership will provide students with opportunities for internships, industry-oriented projects and hands-on training. A GPON network will also be established at the college in collaboration with a KFON network partner, giving students practical exposure to network installation, testing, commissioning, operation and maintenance.
The collaboration will also support technical training and certification programmes in fibre technologies for KFON’s network partners and franchisees, along with joint research and technological innovation. The initiative is expected to contribute to developing industry-ready technical talent and strengthening Kerala’s broadband ecosystem.
The MoU was signed by KFON Managing Director Sandip Kumar, IAS, and Government Polytechnic College, Ezhukone, Principal Minimol L. The event was attended by KFON Chief Sales Officer Bilstin D. Geo, Chief Technology Officer Murali Kishore R.S., Network Planning and Design Manager Gautham Pradeep, and IOC Coordinator and faculty member Kannan M. and faculty member Arun P. Raj from Government Polytechnic College, Ezhukone.