The University of Trinidad and Tobago (UTT) and Heritage Petroleum Company Limited (Heritage) and have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to strengthen collaboration in research and development, innovation and human capital development in support of Trinidad and Tobago’s energy sector.

The five-year MOU establishes a framework for cooperation in applied research, innovation and entrepreneurship, and STEM-focused outreach. Through the partnership, both institutions will combine academic expertise and industry experience to develop practical, technology-driven solutions that improve operational efficiency, safety, sustainability and emissions reduction across the petroleum value chain.

Priority areas under the MOU include artificial intelligence, data science, predictive maintenance, robotics, among others. These initiatives are intended to build local technical capability, expand applied research outputs and support the development of home-grown innovations aligned with national priorities.

Acting Chief Executive Officer of Heritage, Kerry Rampersad, said the partnership represents a strategic investment in people and national capability. "This collaboration with UTT allows research and innovation to move from theory into real-world applications. It strengthens local expertise while helping to prepare the next generation of engineers and technologists for the evolving energy sector," Rampersad said.

The MOU also prioritises human capital development by providing UTT students and researchers with exposure to real-world industry challenges, access to mentorship and opportunities to participate in applied research projects with direct national relevance.

Professor Selwyn Cudjoe, O.R.T.T., Chairman of the Board of Governors, UTT, said thisMOU aligns closely with the University’s mandate, stating that, "Partnering with Heritage enables UTT’s students and researchers to engage meaningfully with industry, while ensuring that innovation, skills development and entrepreneurship remain central to Trinidad and Tobago’s development agenda". 

Also present at the signing was Professor Rean Maharaj, President (Ag), UTT, who thanked Heritage and UTT for forging this alliance and noted that the University looks forward to the realisation of the mutual benefits arising from this collaboration.

Implementation will be guided by a Joint Advisory Committee, comprising representatives from both institutions, to identify priority projects, oversee execution and ensure measurable outcomes for the benefit of both organisations and the citizens of Trinidad and Tobago.