Queensland-based Griffith recognized University has signed MOUs with two of India’s most prestigious higher education institutions – Indian Institute of Science (IISc) and Manipal Academy of Higher Education (MAHE) during its delegation visit to India led by Prof Carolyn Evans – Vice Chancellor, Griffith University.
These partnerships aim to further enhance existing linkages between the institutions and explore new areas of collaboration, including joint degree programs and research initiatives. According to Prof Carolyn Evans – Vice Chancellor, Griffith University, “Relationships with Indian institutions are increasingly important to Griffith University, and we are committed to strengthening our educational and research ties with some outstanding partners. These MOUs with IISc and MAHE are a significant milestone in our journey, and we are excited about the opportunities they present. The collaborations will enable us to leverage each other’s strengths and expertise and create unique opportunities for our students and researchers to work together on cutting-edge research and innovation projects. The fact that both of these partners have been recognised by the Indian Government as Institutions of Eminence is proof of their global reputation for excellence and we are proud to be partnering with them.”
The MOU with IISc is focused on Water Science, building on existing collaborations between Griffith’s Australian Rivers Institute and the IISc’ Water Solutions Lab. The partnership will explore the potential for a dual postgraduate degree program, which will enable eligible Indian students to complete their postdoctoral degree at Griffith in Australia, thus gaining a qualification from both institutions as well as valuable international experience. This will create a unique opportunity for Indian students to receive an international education and for both institutions to enhance their global reputation and networks.
Highlighting the advantage of this MOU, Professor Abhishek Kumar Singh, Chair – Office of International Relations at IISc, said “We are extremely happy by our collaborations with Griffith University through various workshops and research projects/exchanges in Climate change. I am sure this MoU will add value to the ongoing interactions and strengthen our relationship further in other interdisciplinary areas.”
Similarly, the MOU with MAHE, which has been active since 2007 and will be renewed once again, will focus on health, allied health sciences, and environmental engineering, as well as student exchange and recruitment. As part of the renewed partnership, the two institutions will launch a jointly supervised Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) program at Griffith, which will provide a tuition scholarship as well as a living stipend for up to two eligible MAHE doctoral candidates per year. Candidates can follow a specific interest in research areas including pharmacy, health and biological sciences, engineering, and natural sciences. This program will help to create a pathway for Indian students to pursue a PhD in Australia and develop their research skills under the guidance of two prestigious institutions.
