Visit of a Delegation from Fontys University, Netherlands

Minutes of Meeting Conducted on 1st April, 2024

Time: 10:00–3:00 PM
The meeting of Dr. Jyotsna Singh, Associate Dean, STME, Chandigarh campus along with Prof. Koteswararao Anne with the visiting delegation from Fontys University and STME faculty members was conducted on 1st April, 2025.

The Summary Agenda of Meeting:
The meeting focused on exploring avenues of academic collaboration between Fontys University and STME, NMIMS Chandigarh. Key discussion points included the development of a dual-degree program, academic exchange opportunities, and the formation of a specific working group to formalize the collaboration

NMIMS members for meeting:

1. Prof. Koteswararao Anne, Dean MPSTME (Online Mode)
2. Prof. Rashmi Nagpal, Director (I/C) & Associate Dean SOL, NMIMS, Chandigarh
3. Dr. Jyotsna Singh, Associate Dean, STME Chandigarh
4. Dr. Jagpreet, Associate Professor Computer Engineering/ STME,
5. Dr. Yugal Kumar, Associate Professor Computer Engineering, STME 
6. Mr. Pankaj Gulhane, Assistant Professor Electronics and Telecommunication Engineering 
7. Dr. Ashish Mogra, Assistant Professor Mechanical/ STME
8. Dr. Aditya Bakshi, Assistant Professor STME

Visiting Delegation from Fontys University:

• Drs. Ir. Michel van Eekhout RI, Operations Manager at Fontys Hogeschool ICT
• Lect. Roopali Gupta, Lecturer in ICT & Project Leader Education Implementation at Fontys University of Applied Sciences
• Dr. Sachin Bhardwaj Lecturer at ICT F Fontys University

Major Points Discussed:

• Prof. Koteswararao Anne welcomed the guest and introduced the agenda for the meeting.
• A video tour of the Mukesh Patel School of Technology Management and Engineering (MPSTME), Mumbai, was conducted to familiarize the delegation with the infrastructure and academic ecosystem.
• Dean. Prof. Anne shared NMIMS's institutional legacy and stressed the importance of international collaborations.
• Dr. Jyotsna Singh presented an overview of STME Chandigarh's programs and vision.
• Michel van Eekhout from Fontys University initiated dialogue on dual-degree structures.
• Both institutions recognized the value of student exchange and international exposure.
• A specific working group will be formed to advance partnership objectives.

Additional Strategic Action Items:

• A formal Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) is expected in the next academic year.
• Exploration of dual-degree formats:
• 2+2 model: 2 years at NMIMS + 2 years at Fontys
• 2+1+1 model: 2 years at NMIMS + 1 year joint curriculum + 1 year at Fontys
• 3+1+1 model: 3 years at NMIMS + 1 year joint + 1 year at Fontys
• International academic conferences are being planned.
• Faculty exchange for short-term teaching and guest lectures discussed.

Way Forward:

• Align engineering curriculums to ensure smooth credit mapping.
• Explore launching a dual-degree program with co-certification.
• Initiate student exchange for cross-cultural learning.
• Evaluate credit transfer mechanisms for internships and summer schools.