By AIT Public Affairs
18 May 2023- The Asian Institute of Technology (AIT) and The Rockefeller Foundation signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) on 18 May 2023. The MOU establishes a framework for non-exclusive cooperation and aims to facilitate and strengthen collaboration between the two esteemed organizations.
Under this partnership, AIT and The Rockefeller Foundation have agreed to explore various areas of cooperation. These areas include organizing and facilitating interactions amongst key stakeholders through research studies, publications, and joint seminars, promoting the exchange of knowledge and expertise on themes of mutual interest.
Additionally, the collaboration seeks to identify innovative solutions to address development challenges and engage in programmatic interventions that contribute to achieving national and regional development goals. Capacity-building activities in areas of mutual interest will also be undertaken, ensuring the growth and enhancement of expertise in crucial fields. The partnership will also focus on the promotion of student internship programs.
The MoU was signed by Prof. Kazuo Yamamoto, AIT President, and Ms. Deepali Khanna, Vice President of Asia of The Rockefeller Foundation. The signing ceremony was attended by distinguished delegates from New York, including Ms. Natalye Paquin, Chief Operating Officer; Ms. Erica Guyer, General Counsel; and Ms. Cory Milam, Chief Technology Officer. Representing the Asia Office were Ms. Deepali Khanna, Vice President, and Mr. Eric Arndt, Director.
Stating that the partnership with The Rockefeller Foundation is a significant contribution, AIT President Prof. Kazuo Yamamoto said, “This collaboration between AIT and The Rockefeller Foundation holds immense potential in addressing critical development challenges and fostering sustainable solutions. By combining our respective expertise and resources, we aim to create a positive and lasting change in the Asia region and beyond”.
Ms. Natalye Paquin, Chief Operating Officer of The Rockefeller Foundation, emphasized the significance of partnerships and expressed interest in enhancing the collaboration. She highlighted the crucial role of partnerships in bridging information gaps and providing essential support, particularly in areas where redundancies are necessary. “Our primary focus lies in our climate strategy. We are committed to convening diverse stakeholders, uniting their efforts, and amplifying their impactful work as we forge deeper connections. Today, the signing of the MoU signifies our dedication to these goals,” she added.
The Rockefeller Foundation’s mission—unchanged since 1913—is to promote the well-being of humanity throughout the world. Today, the Foundation advances new frontiers of science, data, policy, and innovation to solve global health, food, power, and economic mobility challenges. As a science-driven philanthropy focused on building collaborative relationships with partners and grantees, The Rockefeller Foundation seeks to inspire and foster the large-scale human impact that promotes the well-being of humanity by identifying and accelerating breakthrough solutions, ideas, and conversations.
