Khulna University (KU) and the Housing and Building Research Centre (HBRC) have signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) to collaborate on research, innovation and education in sustainable housing and climate-resilient development.

KU Treasurer Professor Dr Md Nurunnabi and HBRC Executive Director Mohammad Abu Sadek signed the agreement at a ceremony held at the courtyard of KU’s Architecture Discipline on Tuesday (Nov 3).

The partnership will focus on joint research and design innovation, affordable and climate-resilient housing, sustainable settlements, water security, climate change adaptation and disaster preparedness.

The two institutions will also work to promote sustainable construction materials and technologies, improve building performance and support students through academic and research activities, internships and professional mentorship.

Under the agreement, they will jointly organise design competitions, workshops, seminars, studio activities and community engagement programmes. The collaboration will also involve demonstration projects, prototype development and pilot initiatives.

The MoU will create opportunities for technical publications, research dissemination and contributions to relevant policy development.

Architecture Discipline Head Professor Dr Rumana Asad and other faculty members attended the signing ceremony.

The partnership is expected to connect academic research with professional practice and field-level applications, while developing cost-effective architectural, engineering and planning solutions suited to local needs.