Puducherry: Jawaharlal Institute of Medical Education and Research (JIPMER) and the University of Michigan School of Public Health, USA, yesterday entered into a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to launch several research projects in the Union Territory.
The MoU was signed by JIPMER Director Dr TS Ravikumar and Professor Martin Philbert, the Dean of the US-based university.
Ravikumar told reporters that JIPMER, an autonomous institution under the Union health ministry, and the US varsity are equal partners in the Rs 60 lakh project.
The US varsity is giving USD 50,000 (Rs 30 lakh) towards the project with JIPMER to make a matching contribution. Asked what specific research would be taken up as part of the joint initiative, Ravikumar said non-communicable diseases was a major thrust area in addition to maternal and child healthcare.
The MoU, to be in force for five years, envisages exchange of publications and reports on various public health schemes, development of innovative teaching methods and course design, holding of joint symposia, workshops and conferences as well as capacity-building projects for faculties.
It would also facilitate exchange of students and research scholars.
Philbert for his part said it was a memorable occasion for his institution to have entered into an MoU with JIPMER.
