IIT Mandi, South Korean embassy panel discuss collaboration in academics, research

NEW DELHI: Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Mandi hosted South Korean ambassador Chang Jae-bok, along with a delegation from the Korean Embassy, at the institute campus on APril 23 and 24. The visit was aimed at promoting collaboration between IIT Mandi and various higher education institutions (HEIs) of the Republic of Korea.

During his interactions with the officials, ambassador Chang expressed his optimism for the progress of collaborative projects between Korea International Cooperation Agency (KOICA) and IIT Mandi. He emphasised the importance of strengthening science and technology cooperation between South Korea and India.

IIT Mandi director Laxmidhar Behera emphasised on the significance of establishing robust collaborative relationships with leading universities and research organisations in South Korea. He mentioned that this collaboration aims to promote joint research projects, facilitate student and faculty exchanges, and organise workshops focusing on mutually beneficial priority areas.

The Korean panel were given a tour of various research facilities and centres at IIT Mandi, including the Advanced Materials Research Center (AMRC), the Center for Design and Fabrication of Electronic Devices (C4DFED), and the Drone Lab at the Center for Artificial Intelligence and Robotics (CAIR). The visit showcased the cutting-edge research infrastructure at IIT Mandi, highlighting its capabilities in crucial areas such as artificial intelligence and robotics, semiconductor devices, advanced materials, and human-computer interaction.

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India-Korea partnership

Ambassador Chang also delivered a keynote address at an institute colloquium titled “India-Korea, 50 Years and Beyond.” In his address, he elucidated the historical ties between India and Korea, elaborated on the current state of the bilateral relationship, and outlined future prospects for India-Korea partnership.

The ambassador was accompanied by Jung Jinhyeon, Science Attaché; Lee Chohee, First Secretary and Consul at the embassy of the Republic of Korea; Woochan Chang, Country Director KOICA; and Young Ho Kim, director, India Korea Center for Research and Innovation.