Jammu, Feb 27: The Indian Institute of Management (IIM), Jammu and the National Institute of Fashion Technology (NIFT) Srinagar on Tuesday inked a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to boost entrepreneurship and innovation in J&K. The MoU was signed at Bharat Mandapam, New Delhi during Bharat Tex 2024 by Prof B. S. Sahay Director, IIM Jammu and Dr Javid Wani, Director NIFT Srinagar. The MoU is envisioned for a collab framework between the two prestigious institutes for convergence in the areas of academics, research, executive education, training, and the promotion of entrepreneurship and incubation facilities.

The IIM Jammu, established in 2016, is an Institute of National Importance, and NIFT, is a premier institute of fashion education in India. With 18 campuses across the country, including NIFT Srinagar, the institute has been at the forefront of providing professional human resources to the textile and apparel industry. The intersection of management and fashion technology is recognised as a dynamic and evolving landscape, necessitating a comprehensive understanding of both industries.

As per the MoU, the collaboration between IIM Jammu and NIFT Srinagar seeks to bridge this gap, promoting interdisciplinary approaches to problem-solving and ensuring the success and sustainability of both institutes.

"The MoU outlines several areas of collaboration, including academic partnerships, joint executive education programs, and sharing of research facilities. A key focus is the joint development of entrepreneurial activities, start-up incubation facilities, and the overall enhancement of the entrepreneurial ecosystem in J&K," the handout reads.

Convergence of two reputed institutions in J&K is expected to foster exchange of students, staff, educational resources etc. The cooperation shall open new avenues of education and research to the student community studying in both institutions. This collaboration is also expected to transform the lives of the artisans and craftpersons who shall get benefitted through specialised training programs.

On sidelines of Bharat Tex 2024, NIFT (All India level) has signed MoUs with many national and internationally renowned institutions like Arts University Bournemouth UK, BUFT Bangladesh, RMIT Australia, IIIT Kalyani, IIT Mandi, IIM Udaipur, IIM Bodh Gaya, IIT Jodhpur, NID Ahmedabad etc