Dr. Pradeepkumar T.
Honourable Vice Chancellor
Dr. T. Pradeep Kumar, 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.
Message
Established in 2010 as Kerala’s first specialized university for fisheries and ocean studies, KUFOS has quickly emerged as a vital institution addressing the unique challenges of our coastal state and beyond. In just over a decade, we have grown from a fledgling university to a recognized center of excellence in fisheries, aquaculture, and marine sciences. At KUFOS, we are committed to fostering a culture of excellence in education, research, and community engagement. Our unique coastal location offers unparalleled opportunities for hands-on learning and research in marine biodiversity, sustainable aquaculture, and the intricate dynamics of our aquatic ecosystems. We strive to equip our students with the skills and knowledge necessary to address the pressing challenges facing our oceans and inland water bodies.
Our university serves as a beacon of knowledge for over 1000 students annually, with programmes spanning across various specializations in fisheries, aquaculture, management, food technology and ocean studies.
Our distinguished faculty members are at the forefront of scientific discovery and innovation, contributing significantly to the advancement of fisheries and marine sciences. Their dedication to teaching and research ensures that our students receive the best education, preparing them to become leaders and innovators in their respective fields.
As we continue to navigate the complexities of the 21st century, our university remains steadfast in its commitment to sustainability and the responsible stewardship of our natural resources. We believe that through interdisciplinary collaboration and a holistic approach to education, we can develop solutions that promote the health and vitality of our marine and freshwater environments.
To our students, I encourage you to take full advantage of the diverse learning opportunities and resources available at KUFOS. Engage actively in your studies, participate in research initiatives, and immerse yourself in the vibrant campus life. Your journey here will not only shape your future but also contribute to the greater good of our global community.
To our faculty and staff, I extend my heartfelt appreciation for the unwavering dedication and hard work. Your contributions are the backbone of our university’s success, and I am confident that together, we will continue to achieve new heights of academic and research excellence.
To our partners and stakeholders, thank you for the continued support and collaboration. Your engagement is vital to our mission, and we look forward to further strengthening our relationships and exploring new avenues for growth and innovation.
I am honored to lead this esteemed institution and to be part of a community that is passionate about making a positive impact on the world. As we continue our journey towards excellence, let us work together to elevate KUFOS to new heights of a global leader in fisheries and ocean studies, while upholding the values of integrity, inclusivity, and sustainability. In the words of the famous oceanographer, Sylvia Earle: “With every drop of water you drink, every breath you take, you’re connected to the sea. No matter where on Earth you live.”
Let this interconnectedness inspire us to push the boundaries of knowledge and innovation in our field.