Mandi varsity, PU ink pact for research

In a major step towards fostering academic excellence and strengthening inter-institutional collaboration, Sardar Patel University (SPU), Mandi, and Panjab University, Chandigarh, signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU). The agreement marks the beginning of a strategic partnership aimed at enhancing academic engagement and research productivity across multiple disciplines.

The MoU outlines collaboration in the fields of physical sciences, biological sciences, management and information technology and includes provisions for the exchange of postgraduate and PhD students, as well as junior and senior faculty members between the two institutions.

In addition, the two universities will engage in the joint organisation of academic events such as conferences, seminars and workshops and will collaborate on research projects and publications. The agreement also promotes the exchange of academic information and research materials, aiming to leverage mutual strengths for institutional and academic advancement.

Speaking on the occasion, Prof Lalit Awasthi, Vice-Chancellor of SPU Mandi, said the partnership would provide students and researchers with greater academic exposure and access to the extensive resources of Panjab University, one of India’s premier institutions. “This collaboration will create new opportunities for quality education and high-impact research,” he stated.

The MoU was formally signed by Prof Yajvinder Pal Verma, Registrar of Panjab University, and Dr Saneel Kumar, Dean of Planning at SPU Mandi. Both signatories expressed optimism about the partnership and emphasised the importance of knowledge-sharing and institutional synergy in today’s interconnected academic environment.

“This MoU is a step towards strengthening academic collaboration, which is crucial in advancing the goals of higher education in the country. We look forward to a productive association that benefits students, faculty and researchers,” said Dr Kumar.

Himachal Tribune