Dibrugarh varsity & Mumbai-based NGO ink pact to bolster urban governance research

Dibrugarh: In a move toward bridging the gap between academic theory and civic administration, Dibrugarh University (DU) has formalised a strategic partnership with the Praja Foundation, a Mumbai-based non-profit organisation dedicated to strengthening democratic governance.The MoU was signed on Friday at the university campus. This collaboration aims to create a robust framework for enhancing urban governance, promoting transparency, and promoting active citizen participation across the region.The partnership is designed to provide students with a front-row seat to the complexities of urban policy. By aligning with Praja Foundation — an entity renowned for its data-driven research and efforts to empower elected representatives — the university seeks to provide its scholars with practical exposure to the legislative and executive functions of the local govt.Prof Jiten Hazarika, vice-chancellor of Dibrugarh University, expressed high expectations for the collaboration, noting that it aligns with the university’s mission to produce socially conscious professionals.“The signing of this MoU is a milestone for our institution. It will pave the way for meaningful academic collaboration, student internships, field-based learning, joint research initiatives, and enhanced professional exposure for our students in the areas of urban governance and public policy,” Prof Hazarika said.Representatives from the Praja Foundation highlighted that the initiative will involve specialised training modules and workshops. These programmes will focus on mapping urban challenges and utilising data to hold urban local bodies accountable.The Centre for Social Work Studies at Dibrugarh University will serve as the nodal hub for these activities. Faculty members said the synergy will allow students to move beyond textbooks and engage directly with the socio-political fabric of urban Assam.