Mysore/Mysuru: JSS Science and Technology University (JSS STU), Mysuru, recently signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Australia-India Water Centre (AIWC) to be one of the 15 Indian Universities partnering with 9 Universities from Australia. 

Indian Institute of Technology, Guwahati, is the lead Institute from India while Western Sydney University is leading from the Australian side. This collaboration will strive to develop longer-term collaboration in water research and improve water management for sustainable economic development focussing on water and food security, river health, water-energy-food nexus and related aspects of mutual benefits to Australia and India. 

AIWC was launched virtually on Nov.6, 2020 in the virtual presence of High Commissioners from India and Australia, Ministers from Central and State Governments, Directors, and many other dignitaries.

This collaboration will provide the faculty and students of JSS STU an international joint research platform to work and contribute in important domain of water resource management and other trans-disciplinary areas.  This will result in outcomes including the development of tools and techniques to tackle future water and food security challenges including improved management of groundwater, springs, storm water and coastal reservoirs. 

The proposed establishment of a joint Master’s level programme in water resources management will benefit students and professionals. Student and staff exchange programmes under this initiative will enhance international exposure of students and staff to cutting edge technology in water resource management. Capacity building programmes including conduct of conferences, seminars, workshops and training with the support of resources from premier national and international institutions will strengthen water management initiatives in the region, according to a press release from the Varsity.