The Department of Chemistry, School of Advanced Sciences (SAS), VIT-AP University, is organizing a three-day International Conference on Sustainable Materials for Water and Energy Solutions (SuWatE+ 2026). The inaugural session witnessed active participation from students, research scholars, scientists, and faculty, and commenced with a welcome address by Prof. S. Srinivas, Dean, SAS. Dr S. Muthu Prabhu briefed the objectives of the conference. The event was graced by Chief Guest Prof. G. Ranga Rao (IIT Madras) and Guest of Honour Prof. M. G. Sethuraman (GRI, Tamil Nadu). Chief Guest Prof. G. Ranga Rao (IIT Madras) emphasized the critical role of water and energy, urging students and researchers to leverage advancing technologies for the development of sustainable materials, and to contribute to India’s scientific self-reliance and global competitiveness through innovations. Guest of Honour Prof. M. G. Sethuraman (GRI) highlighted the conference’s focus on advancing scientific knowledge and translating research into industrial applications, encouraging young scholars to explore alternative energy solutions and integrate technical expertise with ethical and problem-solving approaches for sustainable development.
Hon’ble Vice Chancellor Prof. Arulmozhivarman and Registrar Prof. Jagadish Mudiganti noted that the conference deliberations will advance sustainability and energy-efficient campus initiatives with national & international impacts, and extended their best wishes for its success. Dr. M. Venkata Rajanikanth, Dean of Academic Research, highlighted that the conference reinforces VIT-AP’s commitment to a strong research ecosystem and innovation-driven learning. The pre-conference proceedings were formally released by the dignitaries and conference leadership. SuWatE+ 2026 will continue from 26–28 March 2026, featuring expert talks from national and international speakers. The inaugural session concluded with a formal vote of thanks delivered by Dr. Ramaknath Illa, Head, Department of Chemistry.
