The Islamic University of Science and Technology (IUST), Awantipora, and the Nepal Centre for Disaster Management (NCDM), Kathmandu, Nepal, signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to strengthen research collaboration in the field of disaster management in the region in the presence of Vice-Chancellor Prof. Shakil A. Romshoo. The MoU was signed by the Dean Academic Affairs IUST, Prof. Ayaz Hassan Moon, and President NCDM, Prof. Bishal Nath Upreti.
Prof. Romshoo, a member of several policymaking committees on climate change and disaster management at the state, national and international levels, described the collaboration as crucial given the impending disaster vulnerabilities in the region. He underlined the significance of capacity building and comprehensive hands-on in disaster preparedness and cutting-edge research in disaster sciences. He added that IUST will facilitate networking and assist in building meaningful alliances and consortia among academia working on global challenges as well as link with national and international agencies for the benefit of society.
Prof. Upreti applauded the proactive interventions undertaken by the university under the leadership of Prof Romshoo for the development of strategic research and academic framework. Also present during the signing ceremony were Registrar Prof Abdul Wahid, Prof Dean Research Prof. Sheikh Javid Ahmed, Prof. Shakeel Ahmad, Consultant IUST, Dean School of Health Sciences, Prof. Mohd Ayub Qadri, Dr. Irfan Maqbool Bhat Coordinator CDRR, Mr. Waseem Qader, Assistant Professor, CDRR. The program was coordinated by Dr. Monisa Qadiri, Officer In-charge, International Affairs Office, IUST.
According to the statement, the MoU will help in the optimal and efficient use of resources and expertise, exchange programs, sharing of equipment and facilities, and infrastructure, to boost the research and academics between J&K, India and Nepal. Furthermore, it will promote collaborative programs in mutually beneficial areas, mutual sharing of facilities such as high-end instruments, joint organization of conferences and other outreach programs.
