Stronger research, education ties in focus during Modi's visit to US

These will be among the interim recommendations of a task force set up under the initiative on critical and emerging technologies (ICET) to both governments to deepen the knowledge partnership, Barbara Synder, the president of the Association of American Universities (AAU) said in a conversation with HT. AAU is the umbrella institution leading the effort from the American side.

- Prashant Jha

India and the US are exploring ways to set up joint research institutes focused on energy and environment, public health and pandemics, agriculture and food security; a joint seed fund to boost higher education collaboration; share each other's research infrastructure including labs; translate research into commercial opportunities; ensure more American researchers and students experience the Indian education system; and overcome obstacles including visa delays for Indian students and researchers during Prime Minister Narendra Modi's visit to Washington on June 22.

Suggesting that knowledge partnership had great potential, Synder said, "These two countries share the same values. They care about higher education and research and understand the benefits it brings to their countries, economies, national security, public health and quality of life. There is tremendous potential in working together."