Meerut, India — Shobhit University, Meerut, India and the Centre on Integrated Rural Development for Asia and the Pacific (CIRDAP), Dhaka, Bangladesh have signed a landmark Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) aimed at advancing sustainable rural development through innovation, capacity building, and technology-driven solutions. The virtual signing ceremony marked a significant step in empowering rural communities across the Asia-Pacific region.
The collaboration will focus on rural development initiatives through capacity building, resource optimization, and technology-enabled empowerment. The partnership aims to address challenges in rural communities across the Asia-Pacific region by fostering interdisciplinary approaches and innovative solutions. Dr. P. Chandra Shekara, Director General of CIRDAP, and Kunwar Shekhar Vijendra, Hon’ble Chancellor of Shobhit University, highlighted the shared vision of the collaboration.
Dr. P. Chandra Shekara, Director General of CIRDAP, delivered a powerful address during the event, emphasizing the transformative potential of the partnership. He highlighted the interdisciplinary approach and innovative strategies embedded in the MoU, underscoring its vital role in addressing the development challenges faced by rural communities. Dr. Shekara stressed that this collaboration would create lasting solutions by focusing on resource optimization, capacity building, and leveraging technology for rural empowerment.
Kunwar Shekhar Vijendra, Hon’ble Chancellor of Shobhit University, also shared his vision for the collaboration. He outlined actionable steps for realizing the MoU’s objectives, emphasizing the importance of impactful programs, collaborative research, and deep community engagement. Chancellor Vijendra expressed his firm belief that this partnership would be instrumental in driving significant advancements in rural development, ultimately improving livelihoods and promoting socio-economic growth in the region.
Prof. M. Moni, former DG, NIC and Professor Emeritus at Shobhit University, underlined the institution’s commitment to aligning its academic and research capabilities with the developmental needs of rural societies. He emphasized that Shobhit University’s strength lies in fostering innovation and bridging the gap between technology and rural empowerment. The MoU will serve as a catalyst for research initiatives, educational outreach, and community engagement, enabling both institutions to collaborate on scalable and impactful solutions for rural India and beyond.
The official signing of the MoU was executed by Prof. (Dr.) Vinod K. Tyagi, Vice-Chancellor of Shobhit University, and Dr. P. Chandra Shekara, Director General of CIRDAP. This formal agreement marks the beginning of a shared journey focused on innovation and rural development. The signing ceremony was commemorated with a symbolic group photo, reflecting the unity and shared vision of both organizations.
In a further demonstration of its commitment to global development, Shobhit University has announced a special scholarship for 45 meritorious students from CIRDAP’s 15 member countries. This initiative aligns with the university’s mission to foster educational equity and empowerment. 70% of the scholarships will be allocated to female students, ensuring greater access for women in rural regions. This scholarship initiative emphasizes the university’s vision to promote gender equality and education, particularly for women from rural communities. The scholarships will cover various academic programs and create opportunities for students to pursue higher education at Shobhit University, continuing the legacy of transformative education.
About Shobhit University, Meerut:
Shobhit University is a premier institution of higher learning in India, known for its focus on innovation, research, and social impact. The university offers a wide range of undergraduate, postgraduate, and doctoral programs across diverse disciplines, with an emphasis on interdisciplinary studies and rural development. With a commitment to fostering leadership and social responsibility, Shobhit University actively collaborates with international organizations and institutions to promote global learning and community development.
About CIRDAP:
The Centre on Integrated Rural Development for Asia and the Pacific (CIRDAP) is a regional intergovernmental organization that works towards promoting sustainable rural development across Asia and the Pacific. Established with a mandate to assist member countries in addressing rural challenges, CIRDAP provides technical assistance, conducts research, and promotes capacity-building initiatives in rural development. CIRDAP works closely with the United Nations and other international organizations to implement its mission of creating inclusive, sustainable, and resilient rural communities.
This historic collaboration between Shobhit University and CIRDAP marks a significant milestone in the journey toward sustainable rural development, offering new opportunities for innovation, research, and social impact across the Asia-Pacific region.
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