9th Mile, Khanapara, Ri Bhoi, September 26, 2023: It is a piece of good news for the higher educational community of the North East region as the Association of Indian Universities (AIU) has identified the University of Science and Technology Meghalaya (USTM) as a Founder Member of the “Indian Network for Internationalisation of Higher Education” (INIHE). This development has coincided with another big news as Mr Bogdan Voronovskiy, the CEO of the BRICS+ Universities Association has also invited USTMto join the Association as a Founding University.
In a recent communique to Prof GD Sharma, Vice Chancellor of USTM, Dr (Mrs) Pankaj Mittal, Secretary General of AIU New Delhi stated, “It is my great pleasure to inform you that University of Science and Technology Meghalaya has been identified as a Founder Member of INIHE. By joining as a Founder Member, your university will play a pivotal role in shaping the consortium’s trajectory and guiding future member institutions towards realizing its goals. This membership not only amplifies your institution’s international reputation but also offers opportunities for networking, knowledge exchange and partnerships with fellow institutions that share your global vision.”
In this context, Shri Mahbubul Hoque, Chancellor USTM said, “It is a proud moment for entire USTM family. By becoming member of INIHI and BRICS+ Universities Association, USTM will march forward towards cultivating an atmosphere for internationalisation”.
The functions of the INIHE include acting as an advisory body to the Government of India and higher education institutions on matters pertaining to internationalisation of higher education. In pursuit of this goal, the Governing Council of AIU has identified few leading institutions that have shown exemplary dedication to academic excellence and internationalisation, nurturing global learning environment and cultural diversity.
INIHE is envisioned to be an independent, autonomous, Pan-India consortium dedicated to the advancement of internationalisation of higher education at all universities/institutions in India. As a research-based collaboration entity, it aims to serve as the nation’s think-tank for all matters related to the internationalisation of higher education and globalisation. The INIHE shall function from the AIU as its Headquarters and Secretariat.
Meanwhile, the BRICS+ Universities Association aims to foster collaboration, cooperation and mutual understanding among higher education institutions within the BRICS+ (Brazil, Russia, India, China, South Africa and some others) nations. Requesting USTM to accept their invitation the Association wrote, “We believe that USTM possesses the academic excellence, research prowess and global vision that align perfectly with the goals and values of our association”.
By becoming a Founding University of the BRICS+ Universities Association, USTM will have the unique opportunity to play an active role in shaping education and research policies at both national and international levels, engage in collaborative research, enhance academic exchange and showcase its achievements, innovations and expertise on a global platform.
