Manipal Academy of Higher Education (MAHE) and TENVIC Sports have signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) to launch a comprehensive set of academic and infrastructural initiatives to develop skilled professionals for the sports industry and provide a structured career pathway for athletes, during and beyond their competitive years.
MAHE and TENVIC Sports will establish an interdisciplinary academic framework integrating sports coaching, management, technology, and sciences to nurture talent for India’s sports sector. The framework will be supported by a research and incubation hub, fostering innovation in high-performance training, sports infrastructure, and athlete support systems.
A key component of this partnership is the creation of ‘High-Performance Sports Centres’ across the MAHE campuses, allowing professional athletes to pursue academic qualifications alongside their training and offering hands-on learning opportunities for students in sports-related disciplines through internships and practical exposure.
Recognising the need for structured career transitions, the collaboration will also equip active and retired athletes with the skills and qualifications required to thrive in corporate and entrepreneurial roles. A media statement said MAHE and TENVIC Sports aim to engage with industry stakeholders, sports organisations and policymakers to drive meaningful change across the sports landscape.
Quoting Ranjan Pai, President of MAHE and Chairman, Manipal Education and Medical Group, the statement said, “MAHE’s collaboration with TENVIC demonstrates our commitment to innovation and excellence in higher education. Developing a new generation of professionals – excelling on the field and across India’s sports ecosystem – is a step towards a fitter nation with a competitive sports culture.”
MD Venkatesh, Vice Chancellor of MAHE, said “Partnering with TENVIC is a notable milestone in our vision of holistic education nurturing well-rounded individuals who contribute meaningfully to society. Sports is not just about competition; it develops character, discipline and leadership. We are proud to support India’s aspirations as a sporting nation.”
Anil Kumble, Co-Founder of TENVIC Sports, said “Since the founding of TENVIC 15 years ago, it has been my aspiration to bridge the gap between education and sports. I am pleased to announce that this vision has been realised through our partnership with MAHE.”
Vasanth Bharadwaj, Co-Founder of TENVIC Sports, said TENVIC’s collaboration with MAHE will nurture and develop Indian talent in sports coaching, technology, sciences and management.