The Manipur University and the Okinawa Churashima Foundation, Japan on Tuesday signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) to boost cooperation in Life Sciences research and education.
The MoU also emphasised the exchange of manpower, protocols, literature, study material and collaborative research between the institutes.
The Registrar of Manipur University, professor W Chandbabu Singh, and chairman of Okinawa Churashima Foundation, Japan, Yoshihito Hanashiro signed the memorandum at the vice-chancellor’s Secretariat, Manipur University.
Manipur University vice-chancellor professor N Lokendra Singh, chairman of Asia Supporting Organisation Alternative Plant for Opium Poppy Yutaka Agatsuma, director of TMH Green Private Ltd Teruaki Watanabe along with faculty members of Manipur University were present at the signing ceremony.
Speaking at the occasion, Okinawa Churashima Foundation Yoshihito Hanashiro stated that Manipur has a wide spectrum of diverse flora species which could be utilised to enhance the environment.
“Paulownia plant, which is found in abundance in Manipur and grows at a very fast pace, can be used for biomass consumption and carbon-dioxide absorption,” he added.
He further exuded confidence that the MoU would strengthen the mutual cooperation and widen the scope of scientific research at both institutes.
Meanwhile, MU VC professor N Lokendra Singh expressed gratitude to the Japanese team for extending their support in development of scientific research at the university.
Okinawa Churashima Foundation is an institute which focuses on physical development of people and conservation of environment. The foundation also contributes to local communities by conducting surveys and studies on subtropical flora and fauna. Okinawa Churashima Foundation was established in 1976.
