A historic Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) was signed between the North East Space Applications Centre (NESAC) and Mahapurush Srimanta Sankardev University on January 28 with the aim of enhancing cooperation in the field of research and education in space science and technology.
The agreement was signed by Dr. S. P. Agarwal, Director, NESAC and Dr. Sarat Hazarika, Registrar, University in the presence of Professor Mridul Hazarika, Vice Chancellor, University. Dr. K. K. Sharma, Group Head, SAG, Dr. B. K. Sandikai, Head, PPEG, Deputy Registrar, University, Dr. Vichitra Bikash, Head, Department of Physics, Dr. Kamal Kumar Tati and senior scientists from various departments of NESAC were also present on the occasion.
During the signing of the agreement, Professor Mridul Hazarika, Vice Chancellor, Mahapurush Srimanta Sankardev University emphasized on joint education and research initiatives of both institutions. He said that this MoU will benefit academics, scientists and researchers. He also announced that eminent scientists of NESAC will be honoured as Honorary Professors in the University.
In his address, NESAC Director Dr. S.P. Agarwal mentioned the largest drone facility centre and drone pilot training centre in the North-Eastern region being set up by NESAC, which will benefit the youth of the region. He also informed that joint capacity-building courses will greatly benefit students and researchers.
Under this MoU, two new joint academic programmes have been introduced in the University—Post Graduate Diploma in Physics and Post Graduate Diploma in Remote Sensing & GIS. These programmes will be jointly taught by NESAC scientists and University professors. These courses will provide students with the necessary skills and knowledge in the field of space science and technology.
As a part of the MoU, the University will recognise NESAC as a Centre of Excellence, thereby further strengthening the collaboration between the two institutions. Under this, joint research projects will be promoted, which will enable professors and researchers of the University and NESAC to exchange their skills and knowledge.
As a result of this partnership, state-of-the-art space and atmospheric research equipment will be installed at the Nagaon-based university. Currently, a lightning detector has been installed, which will enhance the atmospheric study capability of the university. More advanced equipment will be installed in the future, which will provide the students and researchers the benefit of cutting-edge technology and promote high-level research and education.
This partnership will help take space science education and research to new heights in the Northeastern region. This will provide valuable opportunities to the students and help enhance their proficiency in this important field.