ROING, Oct 10: The Research Institute of World’s Ancient Traditions, Cultures and Heritages (RIWATCH), Khinjili, Roing, and Kohima Science College (Autonomous), Nagaland, signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) on Saturday to promote collaborative research, academic exchange and the preservation of the Northeast’s linguistic and cultural heritage.

The MoU was signed by RIWATCH Executive Director Vijay Swami and Kohima Science College Principal Dr Tenjemwang at RIWATCH in Roing, marking the beginning of a shared commitment to learning, collaboration, knowledge exchange, and institutional collaboration between the two institutes.

The partnership aims to facilitate joint research initiatives, exchange expertise and resources, and undertake collaborative activities to advance education, cultural preservation and community development.

Speaking on the occasion, Swami said the collaboration marked a significant step towards his vision of connecting Northeast India through collaborative research. He emphasised the importance of documenting, preserving and promoting the region’s rich linguistic and cultural heritage.

He also shared RIWATCH’s plan to develop the institute into a university, proposed to be named the University of World’s Ancient Traditions, Cultures and Heritages (UWATCH), to expand its academic and research activities and reach a wider community.

Dr Tenjemwang said RIWATCH’s work in language documentation, research and cultural preservation had inspired the college to pursue the collaboration. He expressed confidence that the partnership would strengthen institutional ties, encourage interdisciplinary research and promote the exchange of ideas and expertise.

He said the MoU would serve as the foundation for a lasting partnership based on shared knowledge, mutual respect and a common commitment to academic excellence and cultural preservation.

The signing ceremony was attended by representatives of both institutions, including KSC-A Vice-Principal Kevi Nagi, Assistant Professor and Head of the Department of Anthropology Dr Moarenla Longkumer, Research and Development Centre convenor Dr Mahathung Yanthan, and Internal Quality Assurance Cell coordinator Dr Lilongchem Thyug, and RIWATCH Centre for Mother Languages (RCML) head Dr M S Awan and other faculty members. (Source: EoA)