Colleges in Murshidabad and Nadia sign pact for research, faculty tie-up

Jeet Mondal, an English honours student at Nabagram Amar Chand Kundu College, now has the opportunity to broaden his academic horizons by enrolling in a film appreciation course offered by Subhas Chandra Bose Centenary College at Lalbagh.

At least 17 government-aided degree colleges in Murshidabad and Nadia districts inked a memorandum of understanding (MoU) on Wednesday to foster collaboration in research, student exchanges and faculty interactions.

Helmed by the Nabagram Amar Chand Kundu College and three other institutions, the initiative signals a concerted effort to tackle challenges such as infrastructure deficiencies and faculty shortages prevalent in the region. Aligned with the objectives of the NEP 2020, the initiative underscores the importance of resource-sharing among higher education institutions nationwide.

Noteworthy attendees at the signing ceremony included principals and coordinators from the National Assessment and Accreditation Council (NAAC) and the Internal Quality Assurance Cell (IQAC) of the 17 colleges.

Upon implementation, students will gain access to certificate courses offered by partner colleges and can partake in specialised classes across the consortium. Collaborative student seminars are also on the agenda, fostering an environment conducive to idea exchange and personal growth.

Expressing enthusiasm for the initiative, Jeet said: “I am thrilled to learn that we now have the opportunity to attend classes and utilise the facilities of other colleges. Interacting with peers from different institutions will undoubtedly enrich our learning experience.”

Moreover, provisions have been made for organising joint cultural events and leveraging library and computer laboratory facilities. Exploring student exchange programmes is also on the agenda, aimed at enhancing the educational experience and academic excellence for all involved.

Ajoy Adhikari, principal of RDK College at Jiaganj, hailed the initiative as a privilege, highlighting the potential benefits for remote colleges in the district.

The agreement also underscores the importance of sharing academic resources, conducting lectures and participating in seminars and workshops to foster academic growth.

Principal Soumitra Kar said: “This mutual hand-holding will bring about a holistic development in the field of higher education in Murshidabad and Nadia districts,
particularly in the fringe areas.”