MHU signs pact with Western Sydney varsity to promote advanced research

Maharana Pratap Horticulture University (MHU), Karnal, has signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with Western Sydney University, Australia, to provide students with international exposure and opportunities for advanced research. Under this collaboration, students from both institutions will be eligible for dual degrees through a student exchange programme.

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The initiative, which is optional for students, applies exclusively to those enrolled in MSc (Horticulture) and PhD programmes. The two-year MSc and three-year PhD courses will allow students to complete half of their coursework at MHU and the other half at Western Sydney University.

“MHU is dedicated to bringing global agricultural advancements to Indian farmers. We have signed an MoU with Western Sydney University in Delhi recently to provide international exposure to students of both universities through research and academic activities. It is our commitment to provide excellence in education and research and this step is a part of it,” said Dr Suresh Malhotra, Vice-Chancellor of MHU.

Dr Malhotra emphasised that the partnership will open new avenues for students, particularly in horticulture, by promoting international-level research and introducing advanced academic programmes. “Areas such as beekeeping, biotechnology, high-value crops and protected cultivation will be key focus areas, aiming to develop modern techniques for high-quality horticulture production,” he said.

The Vice-Chancellor also highlighted the broader impact of the collaboration. “This collaboration will directly benefit our farmers by providing them with advanced techniques for increasing productivity. The agreement is a crucial step towards accelerating growth in the agricultural sector and generating a horticulture-based cropping system,” he added.

Last year, MHU signed agreements with leading institutions worldwide and this partnership with Western Sydney University marks another significant step towards strengthening innovation and fostering international collaboration.

“Previously, we have signed MoUs with different universities in England, Japan and the US to enhance agricultural productivity,” said Dr Malhotra.