MoU inked for research, knowledge exchange

Islamabad : The Sustainable Development Policy Institute (SDPI) and Air University Islamabad have formally signed a Memorandum of Understanding to advance collaboration in areas of mutual interest including sustainability, policy research, knowledge exchange and institutional development.

The MoU was signed by Dr. Shafqat Munir Ahmad, Deputy Executive (Policy) SDPI and Air Commodore (r) Fawad Zahir, Director ORIC AU.

The SDPI delegation to the ceremony held at the Air University included Moazzam Sharif Bhatti, Director Advocacy & Campaigns; Ahad Nazir, Associate Research Fellow; and Romila Qamar, Associate Managing Editor (Research) while the AU delegation comprised Dr. Salman Hassan Khan, Director QEC; Dr. Sohail Iqbal, Chair Dept DMAE, Dr. Usama Qazi, Chair Dept GS, Lt. Col (r) Amir Toor, Deputy Director Quality Enhancement Cell (QEC), Mehreen Ishtiaq, Assistant Director QEC and Kinza Ayaz.

The ceremony began with a screening of Air University’s documentary that highlighted the institution’s academic and research contributions.

Dr. Salman Hassan Khan emphasised the university’s commitment to academic excellence and impactful collaboration.

Dr. Shafqat Munir expressed SDPI’s enthusiasm in joining hands with Air University to co-create initiatives that promote evidence-based policymaking and sustainable development practices across Pakistan.

The MoU outlines areas of cooperation such as joint research, training programs, student and faculty placement and engagement, policy dialogues and capacity-building initiatives.

Both institutions vowed to make efforts to bridge the gap between academia and policymaking through mutual exchange of expertise and resources.