The National Institute of Food Technology Entrepreneurship and Management Kundli (NIFTEM-K), an Institute of National Importance under the Ministry of Food Processing Industries (MoFPI), has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the University of Saskatchewan (USask), Saskatoon, Canada. The agreement aims to strengthen academic and research collaboration in food sciences, food technology and agrifood innovation.
Establishment of Centre of Excellence in Pulse Protein
The MoU gains special significance as it follows the announcement of establishing a Centre of Excellence in Pulse Protein through India–Canada collaboration.
- The initiative was announced in the presence of the Prime Ministers of India and Canada.
- Indian Lead Institution: NIFTEM-K
- Canadian Lead Institution: University of Saskatchewan
The centre aims to promote research, innovation and value addition in pulse proteins, supporting food processing and nutrition sectors.
Duration: 5 years
Highlights of MoU
Key Areas of Collaboration
1. Academic Programmes and Training
Both institutions will jointly develop:
- Online teaching programmes in Food Science and Technology
- Courses in Food Systems Economics
- Training programmes in Business Development for food enterprises
2. Exchange Programmes
The partnership will promote short-term exchange programmes for:
- Faculty members
- Researchers
- Students
This will enable exposure to global best practices in food processing, innovation and agrifood systems.
3. Joint Research and Funding
The MoU includes cooperation in:
- Joint research projects
- Collaborative funding proposals
- Development of integrated degree programmes in Food Processing Technology Academic and Industry Collaboration
4. Other areas of cooperation include:
- Short-term academic exchanges
- Development of industry-oriented short courses
- Collaborative project planning
Specific initiatives will be implemented through separate collaboration agreements to ensure structured implementation and measurable outcomes.