Date:04/09/2006 URL: http://www.thehindu.com/2006/09/04/stories/2006090401810500.htm

Andhra Pradesh

ICRISAT, University of Florida forge tie-up

The International Crops Research Institute for the Semi-Arid Tropics (ICRISAT) and the University of Florida (UFl) have launched a partnership with a short course on applications of Geographic Information Systems (GIS) in land resource management for practising professionals, extension officers and students.

The partnership between ICRISAT and UFl is unique since it will offer courses for working professionals and students in a flexible mode, allowing them to accumulate credits at their pace, and pay fees that are affordable in their national currencies. ICRISAT and the UFl jointly award the certificates for short courses, according to an official release.

Though many universities in the U.S. have similar courses for students studying there, this partnership takes the benefits to the professionals and students in developing countries. According to William Dar, Director General of ICRISAT, the earlier trend in collaboration was to exchange students and faculty.

The emerging trend emphasises using technology to help students learn from remote locations.

The partnership will sow the seed that can grow into a global network that fosters agricultural and environmental education.