The University of Leeds, UK, and the Indian Institute of Technology Madras (IIT Madras) have signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) to establish a Joint Virtual Centre of Excellence on Sustainable Development (VCoE-SD). This network aims to deepen and expand the collaboration between the University of Leeds and IIT Madras and strengthen existing connections between Leeds academics and other Indian universities working in sustainable development.
Oliver Ballhatche MBE, the British Deputy High Commissioner to Chennai, who witnessed the signing, said:
It was an honour to witness the signing of the MoU between IIT Madras and the University of Leeds. This partnership showcases how academic and research partnerships between the UK and India can address global challenges and create sustainable solutions. As the University of Leeds celebrates 25 years of engagement in India, this MoU highlights the enduring commitment to fostering academic excellence and driving progress that benefits our nations and the world.
The agreement represents a significant milestone in the partnership between these two prestigious institutions, which aims to advance knowledge and innovation in various critical fields. The MoU facilitates the development of collaborative research prospects and organises joint academic activities, including courses, conferences, seminars, symposia, and lectures. Furthermore, it promotes the exchange of research and teaching personnel, student placements and exchanges, and sharing publications and other materials of mutual interest.
Expressing his enthusiasm about the partnership, Prof Vasilis Sarhosis, Chair in Resilient Structures and Infrastructure at the School of Civil Engineering, University of Leeds, stated:
We are delighted to join forces with IIT Madras, a technological and scientific research leader. This partnership underscores our commitment to fostering international collaboration and addressing some of the world’s most pressing issues through joint research and academic exchange.
Dr Satyanarayanan Seshadri, Advisor, Global Partnership at the Office of Global Engagement, Head, The Energy Consortium, IIT Madras, and a faculty member in the Department of Applied Mechanics and Biomedical Engineering, IIT Madras, remarked:
Leeds and IITM share a solid commitment to excellence in research and internationalisation. As a first initiative, a virtual collaborative group on various topics on sustainability is established. These faculty-led activities are expected to result in significant researcher mobility, joint Doctoral / Masters programmes and active participation in bilateral and multilateral funding opportunities for research and development.
The Indian Institute of Technology Madras is known nationally and internationally for its excellence in technical education, basic and applied research, innovation, entrepreneurship, and industrial consultancy. The institute’s outstanding reputation has been primarily attributed to its illustrious faculty, bright and driven student body, first-rate technical and support staff, and efficient administration.
