By Our Reporter
SHILLONG, March 9: Consul General Melinda Pavek at the US Consulate General in Kolkata recently visited IIM Shillong to discuss prospective academic collaborations.
The visit concluded with a symbolic tree plantation and a campus tour, leaving a lasting impression on all participants. The consul general’s visit proved to be enlightening and enriching, paving the way for further collaboration and exchange between the two countries in the field of education and beyond, a statement said.
Drawing upon her diverse background in both diplomatic and corporate spheres, Pavek shared her journey in her current position, highlighting key roles such as Counselor for Science, Innovation, and Development at the US Embassy in Tokyo and Deputy Chief of Mission in Bandar Seri Begawan, Brunei.
Her extensive experience, ranging from public service as a foreign service officer to corporate roles at Johnson & Johnson, provided valuable insights into the intricacies of international relations.
Director, of IIM Shillong Prof D P Goyal, while welcoming Pavek mentioned various initiatives of the institute and highlighted the international collaborations with the B schools of the US resulting in mutual exchange programmes, joint research initiatives, and faculty collaborations between IIM Shillong and B Schools of US.
One notable initiative discussed during the session was the University of Arizona’s endeavour to foster learning for 100 million learners.
Consul General Pavek highlighted the importance of initiatives like “100,000 Strong in the Americas,” aimed at enhancing regional education cooperation and preparing students for the global workforce of the 21st century and how IIM Shillong’s collaboration with the initiative would potentially be the key to unlocking further academic collaboration.
Moreover, Consul General Pavek highlighted the potential for mutual learning between the indigenous populations of both countries, emphasising that understanding and learning from each other’s cultural heritage can drive growth and prosperity in bilateral trade.
Students and faculty members of the institute engaged enthusiastically, expressing curiosity about cultural differences in academia and showing keen interest in STEM-based research grants and opportunities available to scholars.
The session further included faculty interaction, focusing on collaborative efforts with foreign universities to enhance learning and knowledge transfer.