A MEMORANDUM of understanding signed between University of Fiji and India’s oldest university is expected to bring about further research opportunities in the South Pacific.
The agreement with University of Calcutta was signed by India’s High Commissioner to Fiji, Vinod Kumar and the vice-chancellor of University of Fiji Professor Mahendra Kumar.
Outlining the benefits of the agreement, Mr Kumar said it established co-operation between the two universities.
“It will provide for academic exchange and co-operation. Through this MOU both universities will work closely with each other conducting joint researches, student exchanges and learn various new techniques,” he said.
Mr Kumar said the agreement between both universities would lead to further co-operation between the two universities.
The director of Indian Cultural Centre, High Commission of India Dr Kamal Mishra said the signing was a historic one because University of Calcutta was India’s oldest university.
Dr Mishra said India’s renowned leaders had been the alumni of the university. “The MOU will create avenues in the academic field for further research opportunities in the South Pacific,” he said. He said many noble prize winners were also from University of Calcutta. Dr Mishra said University of Calcutta had 65 departments organised into eight faculties: agriculture; arts; commerce; social welfare and business management; education, journalism and library science; engineering and technology; fine arts, music and home science; law and science.
He added the institution was recognised as a five star university and a centre with potential for excellence by the University Grants Commission and the National Assessment and Accreditation Council of India.