The MoU will aid in enhancing cultural ties between the nations (Representational Image)
As a part of ICCR’s global Indian Speakers Abroad programme, the University of Houston (UH) is now the third US university to collaborate with
The University of Houston and the Indian Council for Cultural Relations (ICCR) have signed an MoU to establish the ICCR Chair of Indian Studies to conduct research on Tamil language, literature and culture.
The MoU, signed on March 29, is the latest step in the university’s years-long effort to strengthen its Indian studies programme.
“We are grateful to the Indian Council for Cultural Relations for this collaboration which will definitely strengthen the cultural ties between our two countries.” 2008.
He added that the expansion of the international footprint of the university will enhance the educational experience for the students and prepare them for success on the global stage.
The position of ICCR Chair of Indian Studies will be held by a visiting scholar from India with expertise in Tamil Studies. The chair will begin operating this fall.
Council General of India in Houston Aseem Mahajan told PTI that the chair aims to conduct research on Tamil language, literature and culture and deepen education partnership.
“The Tamil language is considered one of the oldest in the world, and one of the top five languages spoken in the United States, which is home to approximately 300,000 Tamil-Americans and this MoU will further enhance American education and knowledge Will further deepen the partnership,” Mahajan said.
The visiting professor in the University of Houston College of Liberal Arts and Social Sciences will teach students, collaborate with faculty on research, and make public presentations throughout the semester to preserve and promote Tamil culture.
The University of Houston (UH) is only the third US university to partner with ICCR on its Global Indian Chairs Abroad Program, along with Rutgers University and the University of Pittsburgh.
Dan O’Connor, dean of the College of Liberal Arts and Social Sciences, said the visiting professor will serve as a bridge between several disciplines.
O’Connor said, “India is not only a modern, global center of trade and culture, but it is also an ancient center, rich in history, literature and architecture.” ,
“It is important to preserve that legacy through partnerships like these for future global leaders, some of whom we are teaching right here at UH,” he added.
The appointment of Visiting Professor will be for one semester, but can be extended for a full year. A new visiting professor may be selected for the next semester, the release said.
In 2019, the non-profit organization Houston Tamil Studies Chair, Inc. pledged US$2 million to UH to establish an endowed chair in Tamil Studies, and the Muthyala family named the Sita and Bhaskara Rao Muthyala Endowed Professor of India Studies Donated USD 250,000 for the establishment. Presently it is with Sirseej Mazumdar.
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(This story has not been edited by News18 staff and is published from a syndicated news agency feed)