AMRITSAR: In a landmark event strengthening bilateral ties in education and research, the Arctic University of Norway (UiT) has inked Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs) with Guru Nanak Dev University and five other prominent Indian institutions at the Norwegian Embassy in India on Friday.
The occasion, marked by a reception hosted by Norway's Ambassador to India, Ms May-ElinStener, showcased the burgeoning interest in collaborative ventures between Norway and India. The Norwegian delegation led by Prof. Jan-Gunnar Winther, the pro-rector for Research and Development at UiT, whereas Prof. (Dr.) PreetMohinder Singh Bedi, Dean Students’ Welfare represented the Guru Nanak Dev University Amritsar.
Prof (Dr.) Jaspal Singh Sandhu Vice-Chancellor Guru Nanak Dev University quoted “Guru Nanak Dev University has been known for delivering research excellence alongside the highest quality education, coupled with our passion for creating an impact on society and our commitment to contributing to Sustainable Development Goals. We are very happy to sign the MoU with UiT and are excited to explore research collaborations with them in diverse areas to solve real-world challenges.”
Hege Kristin Widnes from UiT, shared her views on the MoU saying, “This is a great opportunity for both the Institutes to forge closer ties that will enable focused research, and strengthen cooperation between the two countries.”
Aside from the formal agreements, the delegation engaged in fruitful discussions with a vibrant assembly of Indian researchers and stakeholders. These interactions delved into the prospects of cross-border partnerships and underscored the paramount importance of promoting education and research as catalysts for societal progress and innovation. The event marks a milestone in the growing partnership between Norway and India, paving the way for enhanced collaboration and exchange of expertise in education, research, and innovation.
Prof Bedi said that the signing of the MoUs symbolizes a significant step towards fostering deeper cooperation in academic and research endeavours between the two nations. It underscores the mutual commitment to advancing knowledge exchange and collaborative research initiatives in key areas of mutual interest. The MoU will facilitate bilateral visits by students and researchers with the objective of pushing the boundaries of state-of-the-art research. The collaboration will be in the form of faculty and student exchanges and joint projects.