Guwahati: The National Institute of Pharmaceutical Education and Research (NIPER) Guwahati has taken a significant step towards international collaboration by signing a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the ASEAN-India Network of Universities (AINU).
This MoU opens doors for faculty and student exchange programs, joint research initiatives, and even collaborative PhD supervision between NIPER Guwahati and universities across Southeast Asia.
The agreement, signed by Dr. USN Murty, Director of NIPER Guwahati, and Prof. Abhay Kumar Singh, Vice Chancellor of Nalanda University (the AINU nodal institution), paves the way for NIPER to engage with higher education institutions in Brunei, Cambodia, Indonesia, Laos, Malaysia, Myanmar, the Philippines, Singapore, Thailand, and Vietnam.
Building a Knowledge Hub for the Region
The AINU, envisioned by Prime Minister Narendra Modi in 2018 and formally launched in 2022, aims to foster collaboration between Indian and ASEAN universities.
This network focuses on propelling research in emerging fields, developing skilled professionals, and establishing a collaborative think-tank environment. Areas of joint focus include engineering, science and technology, policy and law, trade and investment, peace and security, sustainable development, humanities, and the Blue Economy.
NIPER Director Sees Immense Potential
“We are thrilled to join the AINU consortium. This opens up a world of opportunities for our faculty and students. Prime Minister Modi’s vision of bringing Indian and ASEAN institutions together is sure to be a success, leading to a new knowledge ecosystem that addresses regional challenges of the 21st century,” said Dr. USN Murty after signing the MoU.
Prof. Singh Emphasizes Academic Exchange
Prof. Abhay Kumar Singh, Vice Chancellor of Nalanda University, highlighted the importance of faculty interaction within the AINU network.
“AINU provides a platform for academic exchange between teaching faculty from India and ASEAN member states,” he said.
“These interactions will foster better understanding and pave the way for broader collaboration, ultimately leading to a more comprehensive Asian perspective on knowledge, research, and development,” Kumar said.