On 19th September 2024, the University of Ladakh hosted the signing of a tripartite Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between the University of Ladakh, HCL Tech, and the Hydrocarbon Sector Skill Council (HSSC). The event marked a significant step towards advancing educational and skill development opportunities for students and faculty in Ladakh, providing access to cutting-edge technological courses and skill-based programs. The ceremony began with a traditional Ladakhi welcome, where Prof. S.K. Mehta, Hon'ble Vice Chancellor, University of Ladakh, greeted the dignitaries with khataks (traditional scarves) and presented mementos as a symbol of appreciation. Prof. Mehta then delivered the formal welcome address, emphasizing the importance of this MoU for both students and faculty. He spoke about how the collaboration will bridge the gap between academia and industry, fostering innovation and equipping Ladakhi students with the skills necessary to thrive in a rapidly evolving technological landscape. This MoU, he said, would open new avenues of learning and provide exposure to global standards in education and skill development. Following Prof. Mehta’s address, Ms. Srimathi Shivashankar, Corporate Vice President and Global Business Head EdTech at HCL Tech, delivered a special talk. She elaborated on the transformative power of technology, focusing on key areas such as Artificial Intelligence (AI) and its role in shaping the future. She highlighted the various programs and courses offered by HCL Tech, detailing how students and faculty could benefit from these opportunities by gaining knowledge in AI, cybersecurity, and other essential fields. Her insights underscored the critical role that HCL Tech would play in nurturing the next generation of tech-savvy professionals in Ladakh. The highlight of the event was the formal signing of the MoU, witnessed by several dignitaries, including Ms. Manjeet Legha, Professional Skills Head at HCL Tech, Ms. Diksha Arora from the Hydrocarbon Sector Skill Council, Ms. Mishika Narula, Associate Manager HCLTech, Dr. Subrat Sharma, Dean Research, Dr. Mohd Hussain, Dean Sciences, Dr. Jigmet Deachen, Dean of Students Welfare, and other esteemed faculty members from the University of Ladakh. The MoU signing symbolizes a strategic partnership aimed at fostering skill development, technology-based learning, and research collaboration between the institutions involved. The ceremony concluded with a formal vote of thanks delivered by Dr. Amjad Hussain, Faculty, University of Ladakh, acknowledging the collaborative efforts of all parties involved in making the event a success. The program was hosted by Dr. Basharat Ali, who ensured smooth proceedings throughout the event. In continuation of the MoU ceremony, a special session on Cybersecurity was conducted on 20th September 2024 for the students and faculty of the University of Ladakh. Ms. Manjeet Legha, Professional Skills Head at HCL Tech, led the session, focusing on the importance of cybersecurity in today's digital age. She discussed various cyber threats, their types, and strategies for preventing cyber-attacks. The session was opened with a welcome by Dr. Mohd Hussain, Dean of Sciences at the University of Ladakh, who once again extended a traditional welcome with khataks. The talk was followed by an engaging Q&A session, where participants posed insightful questions on cybersecurity challenges. This collaboration between HCL Tech, HSSC, and the University of Ladakh is expected to be a pivotal force in enhancing the educational and professional landscape of Ladakh, empowering its students and faculty with globally relevant skills and knowledge.
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