Dr. Dinesh Kaippilly, currently officiating as the Head of the Department of Aquaculture at Kerala University of Fisheries and Ocean Studies (KUFOS), serves as the Registrar of the university. With over two decades of professional expertise in fisheries, aquaculture, and allied areas, Dr. Dinesh has emerged as a leading figure in promoting sustainable aquaculture practices and advanced research in the field. A Fellow of the prestigious World Aquaculture Society (WAS), headquartered in the USA, Dr. Dinesh is the second Indian to be conferred this honor, following (late) Prof. (Dr.) M.C. Nandeesha of Karnataka. This global recognition underscores his significant contributions to aquaculture science and his commitment to bridging scientific knowledge with practical applications.

Dr. Dinesh has over 18 years of teaching experience, having mentored numerous students at the College of Fisheries and KUFOS. During his tenure as the Head of Fisheries Station, Puduveypu, he spearheaded Kerala’s first Penaeus vannamei farm and hatchery project, supported by the Government of Kerala. This initiative not only gained widespread attention but also marked a turning point in Kerala’s shrimp farming industry. A passionate advocate of organic shrimp culture, Dr. Dinesh has propagated this sustainable practice through lectures and training programs across India and abroad. He is currently leading an organic shrimp culture project funded by COOP, Switzerland, further cementing his reputation as a pioneer in environmentally responsible aquaculture.

Dr. Dinesh’s expertise has been sought internationally, as he has served as the team leader for two Fisheries Consultancy Missions and Detailed Project Report (DPR) preparations overseas. Domestically, he has been approached by the Government of the Union Territory of Lakshadweep to prepare a Master Plan for Aquaculture.

As Registrar of KUFOS, Dr. Dinesh Kaippilly brings his vast experience and visionary leadership to the administration of India’s premier fisheries university. His efforts in fostering innovation, academic excellence, and sustainable practices continue to strengthen KUFOS’s role as a global leader in fisheries and aquaculture education.

Dr. T. Pradeepkumar, the Vice-Chancellor of Kerala University of Fisheries and Ocean Studies (KUFOS), is a distinguished academician, visionary leader, and a renowned expert in horticulture with a wealth of experience spanning more than two decades in research, teaching, and extension. Born on May 31, 1965, in Tellicherry, Kerala, Dr. Kumar obtained his Ph.D. in Horticulture from the prestigious Indian Agricultural Research Institute (IARI), New Delhi, in 1994.

Dr. Kumar began his academic career as an Assistant Professor at Kerala Agricultural University in 1996 and has since served in various important roles, including the Director of Planning at KAU. Currently, he is heading the Department of Vegetable Science at KAU, where he has made remarkable contributions to the field of agricultural research. His expertise extends to crop development, and he has successfully developed six hybrids of different crops, including seedless watermelon, parthenocarpic salad cucumber, and ridge gourd.

With more than 23 years of experience in horticultural research, teaching, and extension, Dr. Kumar has supervised six M.Sc. and three Ph.D. students. His leadership has been recognized nationally and internationally, with notable awards such as the Krishi Vijnan Award for the Best Agricultural Scientist, conferred by the Government of Kerala in 2015. He was also honored with the Harbhajan Singh Award by the Indian Society of Vegetable Science (ISVS) in 1995 and became a fellow of the International Society of Noni Science in 2018. Additionally, he was awarded the ISVS Fellowship in 2016, the Fellowship of the Indian Academy of Horticultural Sciences in 2019, and the Fellowship of the Indian Society of Spices in 2020.

As Vice-Chancellor of KUFOS, Dr. Pradeep Kumar has brought his visionary leadership and academic excellence to the forefront of the university’s growth. Under his guidance, KUFOS has strengthened its position as a center of excellence in fisheries and ocean studies, with an emphasis on research, sustainable practices, and the development of the blue economy. His commitment to innovation, student empowerment, and faculty development has played a pivotal role in advancing the university’s mission of achieving global leadership in marine resource management.

Shri Saji Cherian, the Honourable Minister for Fisheries, Culture, and Youth Affairs, Government of Kerala, serves as the Pro Vice-Chancellor of Kerala University of Fisheries and Ocean Studies (KUFOS). A dynamic leader with a deep commitment to the welfare of Kerala’s fisheries sector, Shri Cherian has been instrumental in formulating policies that promote sustainable fishing practices, aquaculture development, and the well-being of coastal communities. His visionary approach aligns with the university's mission to advance research and education in fisheries and ocean studies, ensuring a sustainable future for aquatic resources.

As Pro Vice-Chancellor of KUFOS, Shri Cherian brings a wealth of experience and practical insights that guide the university’s initiatives in the blue economy and marine resource management. His leadership fosters innovation and collaboration, empowering KUFOS to achieve academic excellence and societal relevance.

Honourable Governor of Kerala, Chancellor  

Shri Arif Mohammed Khan, the Honourable Governor of Kerala, serves as the Chancellor of Kerala University of Fisheries and Ocean Studies (KUFOS). A distinguished statesman and visionary leader, Shri Khan has made significant contributions to public service, governance, and intellectual discourse in India. Known for his progressive outlook, Shri Khan has been a champion of education, social reform, and interfaith harmony. His tenure as the Governor of Kerala has been marked by his active engagement with academic institutions, fostering innovation, research, and holistic development in the state.

As the Chancellor of KUFOS, Shri Khan plays a pivotal role in guiding the university's vision to advance education, research, and sustainable development in fisheries and ocean studies. Under his leadership, KUFOS strives to be a centre of excellence, contributing to the blue economy and the sustainable management of aquatic resources. Shri Arif Mohammed Khan’s exemplary dedication to nation-building and his relentless pursuit of inclusive progress inspire the KUFOS community to achieve academic and societal excellence.