JMI, Pennsylvania University meets for exchange of ideas, explore possible academic tie-ups

New Delhi: A delegation of University of Pennsylvania Philadelphia has come to Jamia Millia Islamia. Najma Akhtar, the Vice Chancellor has welcomed the delegation of twenty members from the University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia. The delegation is led by Peter Eckel, director of the Leadership Programme and co-director of Penn Project on University Governance.The delegation engaged with deans, faculty members, and selected students at Mir Taqi Mir Hall.

The purpose of the visit is to foster an exchange of ideas and explore possible academic tie-ups between the two institutions. The delegation sought to gain insights into student experiences, quality, and social relevance. It also looks forward to faculty work and research at JMI. Through faculty exchange, student exchange, joint research, and conferences, JMI is focused on internationalizing the university and providing students with a global perspective.

ALSO READ| Delhi High Court seeks Jamia's stand on early hearing of plea against religion-based reservation

The delegation along with Eckel had Larry Moneta, adjunct professor, and Damani White-Lewis, assistant professor of higher education. Additionally, a diverse group of university executives participating in the Executive Directorate Programme at the University of Pennsylvania formed part of the delegation.

Najma Akhtar said,” The university is committed to benchmarking its teaching and research processes by strengthening ties with foreign educational institutions.”

Purpose of the visit

"I'm very confident that the visit of this delegation will enable us to explore and develop a sustainable collaborative partnership with the University of Pennsylvania in areas of academic and research convergence. JMI and UPenn can come together for Twinning, Dual, and Joint Degree Programmes", said Akhtar.

ALSO READ| Jamia Millia Islamia signs with ICPL for BSc Aeronautics dual degree programme

The delegation discussed students' experiences, quality and social relevance, and faculty work and research. To facilitate focused and detailed conversations, six working groups were formed from both sides. The delegation also visited key facilities at JMI, including the Central Instrumentation Facility, AJK-Mass Communication Research Centre, NAMK Pataudi Sports Complex, and Premchand Archives & Literary Centre (Museum).

ALSO READ| JMI launches mobile app, automated attendance system for library users

Eckel, after briefing about the University of Pennsylvania, said that their institute is keen on establishing ties with Indian institutions, including JMI.

The University of Pennsylvania, commonly known as UPenn, is a private Ivy League research university founded in 1749.