International MoUs in store for Mumbai-based JJ School of Art

Sir JJ School of Art campus. File pic

In a first, Sir JJ School of Art is planning to sign memorandums of understanding (MoUs) with international universities. The initiative, aimed at all Fine Arts, Design, and Architecture schools, will see the now de-novo deemed university hold a formal signing ceremony for these MoUs by mid-November.

One of the universities anticipating the proposed draft is Romania's Ovidius University of Constanța, which offers courses in humanities, theology, and arts, among other disciplines such as natural science and medicine. The Agreement of Cooperation will see both varsities work towards academic and cultural exchanges.

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The MoU anticipates an exchange of academic staff members and researchers, alongside student exchange programmes as designed by host universities. The signing bodies will also explore designing combined courses, academic programmes, exhibitions, and joint use of infrastructure and expertise.

"With this new step, we hope to focus on contemporary courses that may not be otherwise offered in India. Contemporary, future-driven courses like design happen to be the centre of our focus," said Vice-Chancellor Him Chatterjee, speaking to mid-day.com.

"This also opens up doors for international faculty members to come in and teach our students about global and contemporary arts. If not in person, we can even eye online courses. Similarly, international students can also come in and experience education on traditional Indian folk arts and tribal arts," he added.

According to officials, the university may also explore international student hostels at its Vikhroli plot, which it is pursuing. Alongside the MoU, officials from Sir JJ School of Arts also plan to deliver lecture series and exhibitions at partner universities, with one of the themes focusing on the Indian Knowledge System through Visual Arts.

"JJ School happens to be one of those rare schools that offers a vast number of Fine Arts courses under one roof, be it sculpture, textile, metal, or more. We are certain that students from other universities can benefit from it," said officials from the university.