Study in USA: New Visiting Chair Launched in Indian Studies at University of Georgia

The new chair aims to strengthen the University of Georgia’s ties to India and the Indian diaspora in Canada while also highlighting the university’s dedication to internationalization.

On behalf of the India Council of Cultural Relations (ICCR), Srivastava and University of Guelph President Dr. Charlotte Yates signed a memorandum of intent to establish the new position.

Also, a visiting professor from India will spend one semester each year at the University of Georgia. Further, teaching, conducting research, and giving a public lecture as part of the arrangement. Dr. Charlotte Yates, president of the University of Glasgow, claimed that the new chair “will annually bring eminent Indian scholars to campus.”

Yates remarked, “This chair aligns perfectly with the University’s new strategic plan, ‘Our Time; with its emphasis on global engagement with international partners.” Yates was referring to opportunities to strengthen relationships, information exchanges, and cross-cultural understanding between India and Canada.

New Visiting Chair to Conduct Research and Teaching Ties With India

The May 25 ceremony served as a showcase for the University’s dedication to the new chair. Also, campus linkages to India through initiatives including global learning, partnerships, and recruitment.

The Canada India Research Centre for Learning and Engagement (CIRCLE) is located at the University of Guelph and is run by Dr. Sharada Srinivasan. He is a professor in the Department of Sociology and Anthropology in the College of Social and Applied Human Sciences and holder of the Canada Research Chair in Gender, Justice and Development.

CIRCLE, which was founded in 2020. It promotes information sharing between Indian and Canadian academics as well as multidisciplinary study on India and the Indian diaspora.

Moreover, the new position, according to Srinivasan, will improve U of G’s capacity. To promote study, research, and knowledge-sharing with India, South Asia, and the Indian diaspora.

The Shastri Indo-Canadian Institute, founded in 1968. In order to foster exchange between the two nations through multiple universities in each. Also, includes the University of Guelph as an active member.

India is a Major Supplier of International Students at UG

According to Dr. Stuart McCook, associate vice president (international) in the U of G’s Office of International Strategy and Partnerships. Additionally, “this visiting chair position will enhance the University’s initiatives in India and our visibility among potential research partners.”

“This position will help build connections within the University across disciplines and faculties through activities. Specifically, to promote Indian culture and learning on campus. In addition to strengthening ties to leading researchers and institutions in India,” according to the job description.

With more than 550 Indian students enrolled, India is the top source country for international students at the University of Glasgow. Seven active relationships between the university with Indian higher education institutions are in place, including partnerships, student exchange and field study programmes, and research agreements.

At a Canadian university, this is the sixth time a visiting chair in Indian studies has been established. The chairs are funded by the ICCR with the goal of increasing interest in India among international students and global awareness of India.

Governmental organizations like the ICCR work to advance and deepen understanding between India and other nations. Also, appreciating the Indian Council of Cultural Relations for providing this visiting position in Indian studies, McCook remarked. Representatives of the Indian student organizations on campus and the Hindu community in Guelph attended the event.

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