Shimla, Gujarat law universities partner for research, exchange

In a significant move to strengthen academic and research collaboration, the Himachal Pradesh National Law University (HPNLU), Shimla, has signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with Gujarat National Law University (GNLU), Gandhinagar. The agreement aims to foster the exchange of students and faculty members between the two institutions, paving the way for academic enrichment, research exposure and institutional synergy.

The MoU was formally signed by Prof (Dr) S Shanthakumar, Director of GNLU, and Prof (Dr) Priti Saxena, Vice-Chancellor of HPNLU, in a ceremony that underscored the mutual commitment of both universities to enhancing legal education through collaborative engagement.

Under the terms of the agreement, the two universities will undertake joint research projects and academic publications and explore funding opportunities from both national and international agencies. The MoU also includes provisions for organising collaborative seminars, conferences and training programmes, as well as facilitating mutual access to library and academic resources for PhD scholars and researchers.

Additionally, the agreement provides for supervision and co-supervision of doctoral research by faculty members from both institutions and aims to develop interdisciplinary and practice-based legal education programmes.

Highlighting the importance of the collaboration, Prof (Dr) Priti Saxena stated, “This partnership reinforces HPNLU’s commitment to delivering high-quality, socially relevant legal education and nurturing a vibrant academic environment that encourages research, innovation and holistic development.”

GNLU, established under the Gujarat National Law University Act, 2003, is recognised by the Bar Council of India (BCI) and the University Grants Commission (UGC) and is widely regarded as a leading institution in the field of legal education and research. HPNLU, established under the Himachal Pradesh National Law University Act, 2016, has rapidly emerged as a centre of academic excellence and legal scholarship in the country.