May 18th, 2022 — Asian Institute of Technology (AIT) and the University of Agricultural Science Dharwad -UASD, India signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to strengthen the inter-institutional relationship in research, training, and multidisciplinary development to serve the region toward economic growth and sustainable development.
UASD is one of the leading institutes in India founded on October 1, 1986. The University has 5 Colleges, 27 Research Stations, 6 Agriculture Extension Education Centers, and 6 Krishi Vigyan Kendras (an integral part of the National Agricultural Research System or NARS aiming to assess specific technology modules in agriculture and collaborate with enterprises through technology assessment, refinement, and demonstrations).
One of the topics discussed in the meeting included an emphasis on students’ capacity building pertaining to UASD sending 35 students to AIT for an intensive training titled “Food Innovation and Sustainability” (arrived at AIT on the 8th of May 2022). AIT President Dr. Eden Woon in this regard highlighted students from UASD will nurture the mindset and skills that are essential for the future and that AIT along with its staff are student-oriented. “When students come here, they are well taken care of,” President Woon insisted.
UASD Chancellor, Dr. Mahadev B. Chetti in support of the president said through the entrepreneurship training program, students will be exposed to pursue ideas faster. He further highlighted the alignments of thematic areas AIT and UASD shared in a smart community and focus to assist in the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
The two institutes also discussed future collaboration on enhancing smart agriculture, Internet of Things (IoT), Information and Communications Technology (ICT), and Dual Degree Program development.
Delegates from UASD included Dr. Mahadev B. Chetti, UASD Chancellor; and Dr. Ashalatha KV, Professor and Head, Department of Agricultural Statistics. AIT’s delegates included AIT President Dr. Eden Woon; Prof. Vilas Nitivattananon Dean of School of Environment, Resources and Development (SERD); Prof. Anil Kumar Anal, Department of Food, Agriculture and Bioresources (FAB/SERD); Dr. Chutiporn Anutariya Associate Dean of School of Engineering and Technology (SET) and Department Head of ICT Program; Dr. Avishek Datta, Department Head and Associate Professor (FAB/SERD); and Dr. Sumana Shrestha, Coordinator, Office of International Affairs (OIA).
