Raipur . Pandit Sunderlal Sharma (Open) University, Chhattisgarh, Bilaspur has signed two important Memoranda of Understanding (MOUs) to enhance collaboration in the fields of education and research. The university has signed agreements with Maharishi University of Management and Technology, Bilaspur (MUMT) and the Tribal Research and Knowledge Centre, New Delhi. These agreements lay the foundation for promoting academic activities, joint research, training, innovation, and studies on tribal subjects at the institutional level.

From academic activities to digital education,
the two institutions will collaborate in the areas of academics, research, training, innovation, extension, and institutional development. Interdisciplinary studies and curriculum-related activities will be promoted, along with joint symposia, workshops, lectures, and academic events. The two institutions will also collaborate in the development of MOOCs, open educational resources (OERs), digital and self-learning materials , and technology-based learning resources. The MOU will promote joint

research and publications
. Possibilities for research methodology, training, expert lectures, and faculty development programs have also been provided for researchers and teachers.

The two institutions will also collaborate to provide students with opportunities related to internships, project work, field experiences, educational tours, skill development, career guidance, and entrepreneurship. The MoU with the Tribal Research and Knowledge Centre, New Delhi, prioritizes joint study and research on tribal issues and Scheduled Tribes. Academic discourse on tribal issues will be furthered through activities such as conferences, symposia, publications, and knowledge sharing. Under the agreement,

 the Tribal Research and Knowledge Centre will provide intellectual support in strategy formulation, planning, and roadmap development. The Centre will also contribute its expertise and knowledge as needed. A two-member steering committee will coordinate. The MoU provides for the formation of a two-member steering committee, consisting of one representative from each side, to coordinate and monitor the proposed activities. Issues related to intellectual property, ownership, promotion, and knowledge sharing will be mutually agreed upon, depending on the nature of the work.  New opportunities for teachers, students and researchers
According to the university, the aim of both agreements is to facilitate institutional collaboration through shared expertise and resources. This will create new academic and research opportunities for faculty, students, and researchers.

The tribal research agreement will provide opportunities to advance studies on tribal society, culture, tradition, and contemporary issues.
On behalf of PSSOU, Vice Chancellor Prof. V.K. Saraswat and Registrar Chandrabhushan Mishra were present. On behalf of MUMT, Vice Chancellor Prof. Dr. Naresh Kumar Tiwari and Registrar Dr. Vijay Garudik attended.

On behalf of the Tribal Research and Knowledge Center, New Delhi, State Coordinator Rajiv Sharma and social worker Vaibhav Surange were present.