Hyderabad: In a significant stride toward international collaboration in academia and research, the Indian Institute of Technology Hyderabad (IITH) and Kathmandu University (KU) have entered into an agreement to launch a Joint Doctoral Programme (JDP) at the PhD level, encompassing various fields of research. This groundbreaking initiative aims to provide exceptional students from both India and Nepal with the opportunity to engage in cutting-edge scientific, technological, design, and medical research under a joint framework.
During a recent visit of an IITH delegation to KU, several decisions were made to further strengthen the ties between the two institutions. Among the key highlights, students enrolled in the JDP at Kathmandu University will have the chance to spend up to a year at IITH, with the support of an IITH scholarship throughout their stay. Reciprocally, students from IITH will also have the opportunity to study at KU. This collaboration seeks to foster mutual research interests and capitalize on the complementary capabilities of both institutions.
Emphasizing the significance of this partnership, Prof Bhola Thapa, Vice-Chancellor of Kathmandu University, stated, “The collaboration between KU and IITH holds tremendous potential for faculty exchanges, joint research programs, and international internships. Together, we can achieve much more and collectively advance as global leaders in academia.”
Prof. B. S. Murty, Director of IITH, highlighted the program’s merits, saying, “The Joint Doctoral Program aligns with IITH’s commitment to global collaboration and academic excellence. This collaboration with KU in Nepal not only showcases our dedication to regional development but also emphasizes the power of fostering positive change through technology and innovation for humanity.”
The partnership extends beyond the JDP, with IITH welcoming 10 BTech students from KU during their final year (4th year) of the August 2023 cycle. This initiative aims to provide valuable research exposure to undergraduate students. Furthermore, IITH will host undergraduate students from KU for short research internships, enhancing the hands-on research experience.
The collaboration between IITH and KU also includes faculty exchanges and collaborative work on significant issues faced by both countries. These efforts are aimed at elevating bilateral academic and research collaboration to unprecedented heights. The institutions have also outlined plans to expand their joint initiatives in fields such as Medical Technology, Yoga, and Heritage Science.
The agreement, formalized through a memorandum of understanding (MoU) signed at Kathmandu University, marks a historic step forward in promoting cross-border research and academic excellence. The signing ceremony was attended by dignitaries including Prof Manish Pokharel (Dean of School of Engineering), Prof Dr Manoj Humagain (Dean of School of Medical Sciences), and other officials from both institutions, showcasing the commitment to fostering innovation, collaboration, and mutual growth.
