KPR Institute of Engineering and Technology and Centrale Nantes – a reputed Engineering College in France signed a MoU to foster academic & research collaboration on Tuesday. The event was two-fold, and it featured a Round Table conference on Indo-French Cooperation in Higher Education Opportunities and Possibilities.
The signing of the MoU was held virtually due to the pandemic. It was held in the physical presence the Consul General of France Lise Talbot Barre and members from the French Embassy.
Dr.Akila, Principal, KPRIET said that through this MoU, interested students of the college can take up a 1 year Program from Centrale Nantes post completion of their degree. After the completion of this program (which acts as a foundation course), they get eligible to pursue their Master’s Degree at the French Institution.
This MoU also enables for Student and Faculty Exchange program, and unlocks research-collaboration opportunities. The students and faculty from KPRIET and Centrale Nantes can work on joint research projects.
Lise Talbot Barre said “ we are here today in Coimbatore to develop collaboration in academic and science fields. We are very convinced with the potential of Tamil Nadu.” She said France sees the rich potential in the education arena in Tamil Nadu – which has Quality University, colleges and high quality staff power.
Answering to a question about scholarships for Indian students, Dr.Nicholas Gherardi, Deputy Counsellor for Science and Education, French Embassy said that French government provides many scholarships and has dedicated programs for students from India.
France spends 1 million Euro on educational support toward promising students from other nations. With this support the qualifying students can purse their Bachelors’ Degree all the way to the extent of Ph.D. He also added the several French and Indian companies also provide financial support to students entering the spheres of France.
A press release from KPRIET said that delegates from top institutions of Coimbatore participated In the conference and valued the discussion with their innovative thoughts on the importance of French language and higher education in France.
Dr. M. Akila, Principal – KPRIET, Dr. A. M. Natarajan, Chief Executive – KPRIET and Heads of Various Departments participated in the event.