In a significant step toward international academic collaboration, Fazl Ali College, Mokokchung, Nagaland, has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Sherubtse College, Royal University of Bhutan, based in Trashigang. The partnership aims to “establish collaborative relations between the two parties to promote friendship and to co-operate in a mutually beneficial association.”
The MoU outlines a broad framework for cooperation and collaboration that aims to promote international academic cooperation and the exchange of teaching and research experiences between Fazl Ali College and Sherubtse College. It further states that the institutions will cooperate in developing friendship and mutual interests on a reciprocal basis of respect for the independence and equal status of each university.
According to the MoU, the two higher education institutions agree to exchange academic materials and information; mutually receive educational visits by faculty members and researchers; exchange students; hold joint international seminars and conferences; conduct joint research projects; and “engage in other activities” to better enhance mutual understanding and cooperation.
Under the agreement, Fazl Ali College has designated the Convenor of its Research & Development Cell, while Sherubtse College has designated the Office of the Dean of Research and Industrial Linkages as their respective representatives for the full implementation of this agreement.
“This MoU will be construed as statements of intent to foster genuine and mutually beneficial academic collaboration,” the MoU read.
Dr I Wati Imchen, Principal of Fazl Ali College, signed the agreement on behalf of the college, while Chewang Rinzin, Vice-Chancellor of the Royal University of Bhutan, signed on behalf of Sherubtse College. The MoU was signed on August 5 at Sherubtse College. Dr Imchen was accompanied by Dr E Benrithung Patton, Associate Professor and Convenor of the Research and Development Cell (RDC), Fazl Ali College.
The MoU will remain in effect for an initial period of five years and will be automatically extended for successive terms unless either party communicates an intent to terminate the agreement at least six months prior to its expiration.