The Department of Pharmaceutical Technology, Paavai Engineering College, signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Biological Treatment Lab, Division of Biotechnology, College of Environmental and Bioresource Sciences, Jeonbuk National University, South Korea. The ceremony was held at GD Hall and was attended by the Chairman, Admin, Principal, Director – Centre for Research, Director – PIF, Dr. S. Kamalakannan, Head of the Department of Pharmaceutical Technology, along with seven faculty members, including Dr. Pugazhenthi and Mr. Gowtham.
The event was compered by Ms. S. Ilakya, Assistant Professor, Department of Pharmaceutical Technology. The welcome address was delivered by the Director – Centre for Research, who emphasized the importance of collaboration and the mutual benefits both institutions could achieve.
A video clip was played, showcasing Dr. S. Kamalakannan’s virtual conversation with the Prime Minister of India, Mr. Narendra Modi, regarding student exchange programs and startup establishment.
Shri CA N. V. Natarajan, Founder and Chairman, Paavai Educational Institutions delivered the presidential address, stating, “The collaboration must result in meaningful contributions to the nation.” He emphasized that both Paavai Engineering College and Jeonbuk National University should work together to achieve tangible action plans with regular follow-ups. He also mentioned that student and staff exchange programs would be planned in the near future.
Dr. S. Kamalakannan underscored that “Collaboration is not optional; it is essential.” He stated that the MoU signing should accelerate learning, enrich innovation, and open new avenues for research. He also emphasized the importance of joint publications in SCI journals to further strengthen the partnership.
After the addresses, the Memorandum of Understanding was signed by Dr. S. Kamalakannan and Dr. R. Praveen Cumar and was exchanged in the presence of the Chairman.
The following faculty members of the Department of Pharmaceutical Technology presented their project proposals: Dr. R. Praveen Cumar, Dr. M. Masilamani Selvam, Dr. S. Parthasarathi, Dr. H. Harikrishnan, Mr. M. G. Karthih, and Ms. S. Ilakya. A total of 14 project proposals were presented, and the speaker provided valuable suggestions for further strengthening the projects.
The speaker encouraged the presenters to incorporate advanced technology in their projects.
The Director – Centre for Research offered insights regarding funding opportunities and suggested utilizing the facilities at the Korean lab for sample analysis. He mentioned that any students or faculty members interested in collaboration could travel to Korea, with necessary arrangements being facilitated by the institution.
The Principal encouraged the faculty members to integrate the suggestions provided and to maintain ongoing communication with Jeonbuk National University.
Additional points discussed included the extension of the MoU with other institutions, the development of curriculum frameworks, and the initiation of online guest lectures by the staff. The speaker also offered access to advanced analytical instruments such as LC-MS, ICP-MS, Confocal Microscope, and HPLC-MS for minimal sample analysis, free of charge.
The event concluded with the vote of thanks delivered by Dr. R. Praveen Cumar, Head of the Department of Pharmaceutical Technology.
