Australian varsity to partner Assam to improve higher education

The Assam government has entered into a 'collaborative partnership agreement' with Australia's Curtin University in an attempt to improve higher education in the state, particularly in the areas of technical education and research.

Under the partnership, Curtin University will work collaboratively with the department of education and Assam Science and Technology University (ASTU) in developing and implementing "world class" Washington Accord accredited programme to improve the level of technology, education and research in the state.

Chairing a meeting held at his official residence this morning, Assam chief minister Tarun Gogoi has assured "all possible support" and cooperation from the state government to Curtin University to carry forward the collaborative and comprehensive studies in state's technical education and research sector.

Gogoi has asked the state's education department to "leave no stone unturned" to extend the parameters of the agreement in the areas of gap analysis, curriculum and other services to "facilitate paradigm shift" in the higher education sector.

He also asked to incorporate agriculture and other natural resources within the ambit of the study to ensure the state's effort for sustainable development.

State education minister, Sarat Barkotoky, additional chief secretary, information technology and education department, Rajiv Kumar Bora, vice-chancellor of Assam Science and Technology University, Pradyut Kumar Goswami, among others were present at the meeting. 

In an another unrelated development, Union minister of science and technology and, Harsh Vardhan, today said the Centre was "committed" to setting up of Bio-Tech Park in Manipur and he discussed the issue with Manipur chief minister Okram Ibobi Singh. Vardhan is presently in Manpur on an official visit.

He yesterday had inaugurated a four-storey Vigyan Sadan in the Foundation for Environment and Economic Development Services (FEEDS) campus at Hengbung in Sadar Hills, Senapati district of the state.

He also said that FEEDS campus at Hengbung has developed into a world class research centre even while being located at a tribal and remotest part of the country.