KSU and AFU sign MoU for collaborative research

By TRN Online, Kathmandu, July 6: Kentucky State University (KSU), USA, and Agriculture and Forestry University (AFU), Nepal, signed a landmark Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) aimed at fostering collaborative research, academic exchange, and sustainable development.

According to a statement issued by the KSU, the MoU was signed during a visit by a high-level KSU delegation to AFU’s main campus in Rampur, Chitwan on July 1, 2025.

The delegation included KSU President Dr. Koffi C. Akakpo, Director of Graduate Studies and USDA NextGen Project Director Dr. Buddhi R. Gyawali, Chair of the School of Agriculture and Natural Resources Dr. Maheteme Gebremedhin, Assistant Professor Dr. Suraj Upadhaya, and 10 undergraduate students from diverse academic backgrounds. Their visit is part of KSU’s Nepal Experiential Learning Program, designed to strengthen international partnerships and promote cross-cultural learning through interdisciplinary engagement, according to statement.

KSU’s President Dr. Akakpo expressed enthusiasm for the growing relationship, stating, “The sky is the limit, especially as Kentucky State University proudly hosts faculty originally from Nepal. This connection strengthens our global commitment to education, development, and sustainability.”

AFU Vice Chancellor Prof. Dr. Sarada Thapaliya echoed this optimism, noting, “We are very glad to sign this MoU with Kentucky State University, and we are excited for the future ahead.”  Echoing similar sentiments, Dr. Puskar Pal, Registrar of AFU, said, “Both universities have a strong foundation in teaching, research, and extension. This collaboration will help cultivate the next generation of skilled and qualified professionals in agriculture and natural resource management.”

Dr. Buddhi R. Gyawali highlighted the strategic relevance of the partnership: “This collaboration builds a strong foundation for academic exchange and collaborative research that addresses global sustainability challenges. By connecting the expertise and landscapes of the Himalayas and Appalachia, we can co-develop innovative solutions and prepare future leaders to manage natural resources in diverse and changing environments.” He also noted that faculty and students of Nepali origin at KSU are enthusiastic about expanding collaborative projects in their home country. Dr. Suraj Upadhaya, Assistant Professor of Sustainable Systems at KSU and lead coordinator of the study abroad component, shared details of a new initiative funded by the U.S. Department of State’s IDEAS Program. “This MoU will help us develop a credit-qualified study abroad program that offers students from both universities meaningful academic and cross-cultural experiences. It will also support faculty in conducting collaborative research on high-altitude ecology, an area of mutual importance as both the Himalayas and Appalachia face similar sustainability challenges.”

The agreement outlines shared commitments to academic mobility, joint proposal development, collaborative research, and capacity building. It represents a strategic step toward establishing a global academic network rooted in shared values and a common vision for sustainable development, read the KSU statement.