New Delhi: The University of Leeds and the Public Health Foundation of India have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to establish a strategic partnership aimed at advancing public health research, education, and academic collaboration.
The agreement provides a framework for long-term engagement between the two institutions, fostering collaborative research, academic exchanges, and joint educational initiatives. Through this partnership, the University of Leeds and PHFI will work together to address emerging public health challenges in areas such as antimicrobial resistance, health equity, trauma prevention, and One Health, while promoting innovation and strengthening global knowledge networks.
Key areas of collaboration include the development of joint research projects, organization of academic activities such as conferences, seminars, lectures, and joint educational programmes, as well as the exchange of faculty, researchers, and students. The partnership will also facilitate student placements, exchange opportunities, and the sharing of publications and academic resources of mutual interest.
The collaboration is expected to promote interdisciplinary research and further strengthen academic ties between India and the United Kingdom, supporting evidence-based approaches to tackling global health challenges.
Commenting on the partnership, Professor Piruthivi Sukumar, Professor of Global Engagement and Education and Pro-Dean International at the University of Leeds, said that preparing the next generation of public health leaders requires exposure to diverse perspectives, international experiences, and real-world challenges.
“This collaboration provides a valuable platform for students and academics to connect across borders, exchange knowledge, and learn from one another. We are excited about the opportunities this partnership will create to nurture talent, advance research, and drive positive change in global health,” he said.
Speaking about the new alliance, Professor Sanjay Zodpey, President of PHFI, emphasized the growing need for institutions to work across disciplines and geographical boundaries as health challenges become increasingly interconnected.
“This partnership reflects our shared commitment to advancing research, strengthening academic engagement, and supporting the development of future public health leaders. We look forward to collaborations that generate meaningful outcomes for both academic and public health communities,” he said.
By bringing together complementary expertise and resources, the University of Leeds and PHFI aim to encourage interdisciplinary collaboration, promote academic mobility, and create meaningful opportunities for knowledge exchange. Through joint initiatives, both institutions seek to contribute to the advancement of public health research and education while supporting the development of innovative solutions to emerging global health priorities.
The MoU marks an important step toward building stronger international academic partnerships and enhancing global efforts to improve public health outcomes through research, education, and innovation.
