Itanagar, Apr 21: Arunachal Pradesh University (APU), Pasighat, represented the state at the EU–India Higher Education Cooperation Networking Seminar held on April 20 at The LaLiT New Delhi.
Organised by the European Commission and supported by the German Academic Exchange Service (DAAD), the seminar brought together representatives from over 50 universities across around 15 European countries, alongside Indian higher education institutions and the Association of Indian Universities.
APU was represented by Assistant Registrar (Exam and Academics) Likha Rinchin and Assistant Professor Dr Prem Taba.
The day-long seminar featured plenary sessions on EU–India academic cooperation, panel discussions on higher education for skills development and employability, and structured one-on-one matchmaking sessions between Indian and European universities.
A key highlight of the seminar was the Erasmus+ programme — the European Union's flagship initiative for education, training, and youth — which enables partnerships for student mobility, faculty exchange, joint research, and dual degree programmes. Erasmus+ scholarships fully cover tuition, travel, and living expenses, making them highly attractive for Indian students.
The APU delegation actively participated in the matchmaking sessions, presenting the university’s strengths in social sciences, tribal and indigenous studies, mass communication, and environmental research.
Rinchin described the response from European institutions as encouraging. “We had very productive conversations, and there was genuine interest in our university and research areas. We hope these discussions will lead to formal collaborations,” he said.
The participation aligns with the vision of Chief Minister Pema Khandu, who recently announced full financial sponsorship for APST students admitted to the world’s top 150 universities as per the QS World University Rankings — a scheme that positions Arunachal Pradesh as the only state in India offering such a comprehensive initiative.
APU delegation meets Union Minister Rijiju
In a separate development, the APU delegation met Union Minister of Minority Affairs Kiren Rijiju in New Delhi on Monday, seeking support for fellowship funding for PhD scholars and improvement of campus infrastructure.
Rijiju assured assistance on infrastructure development and advised the university to submit proposals through the State Government and relevant central portals to avail benefits under Central schemes.
On the issue of fellowships—highlighting that APU’s PhD scholars, largely from Scheduled Tribe communities, currently lack financial support—the Minister acknowledged the concern and said he would explore possibilities in consultation with the Union Ministry of Education.
He also congratulated APU on its establishment and progress, encouraging the institution to focus on quality teaching, learning, and research to empower the youth of Arunachal Pradesh.
Rinchin briefed the Minister on the university’s growth since the launch of its first academic session in August 2023, including its academic programmes, research activities, and campus development at Pasighat.