India and Scotland Extend Education Links

Union Minister of Human Resource Development, Kapil Sibal and the First Minister of Scotland, Mr. Alex Salmond welcomed, here today moves to strengthen India?s and Scotland?s learning links. In the presence of the two Ministers, four MOUs were signed between Higher Education Institutions of India and Scotland, which build upon an overarching MOU signed in 2009 between the Association of India Universities and Universities Scotland

? A Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) between University of Abertay Dundee and Indian Institute of Information Technology (IIIT) in Allahabad to promote joint research and student exchange programmes.

? MOU between University of Edinburgh and University of Delhi to promote joint research and student exchange programmes. Edinburgh University is also opening up a new office in Mumbai.

? A partnership agreement between Glasgow Caledonian University (GCU) and Sitaram Bhartia Institute of Science and Research in New Delhi to deliver programmes which could see thousands of people in India spared unnecessary amputation through diabetes. It has forged partnerships with the MV Diabetes Research Centre in Chennai, Lilavati Hospital in Mumbai and Max Health Care, also in Delhi.

? MOU between Scottish Qualifications Authority (SQA) and India?s National Accreditation Board for Education and Training (NABET) to develop skills and training.

Speaking on the occasion, Shri Kapil Sibal said, ?We intend to empower our students by providing access to the finest university education the world has on offer. And in Scotland, with its higher learning tradition that goes back to the Renaissance, we have found a worthy partner.? He also said more emphasis needs to be given to promotion of vocational courses. The vocational courses will sharpen skills which will help in the growth and development of the nation.

Speaking on the occasion, Mr. Salmond said ?Scotland is an ideal partner for India as it seeks to grow its education sector and enhance its research and development capabilities, all of which are needed to sustain strong and stable economic growth. Scotland?s education industry is renowned for excellence, achievement and innovation. From further and higher education to cutting edge research and development, there is great opportunity for mutual benefit in this area?.