HNLU Signs Landmark MoU With Texas A&M University For Academic Collaboration

Hidayatullah National Law University (HNLU), one of India's premier institutions for legal education, has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the School of Law at Texas A&M University, marking the beginning of a comprehensive academic partnership. This collaboration aims to foster faculty and student exchanges, joint research initiatives, and the development of innovative academic programs.

Established in 2003, HNLU is the sixth national law university in India and is named after the eminent jurist Justice Mohammad Hidayatullah the former CJI of India and also the elected Vice President of India. The university is situated on a sprawling 70-acre campus in Nava Raipur, Chhattisgarh, and is equipped with state-of-the-art academic and residential facilities. HNLU's Research Hub & Spoke (R-HaS) initiative operates through 25 research centers, spearheading pioneering projects such as Lex Osmose, Sui Generis, HAAI, and HNLU Press.

Under the leadership of its Vice-Chancellor, Prof. (Dr.) V.C. Vivekanandan-currently the President of the Consortium of National Law Universities of India, HNLU continues to be at the forefront of legal education and research. Prof. Vivekanandan's vision has also led to the establishment of HEXA (Hidayatullah Exchange Academy) in 2022 and the upcoming H- VISA (Hidayatullah Visiting International Scholars Academy), set to welcome international scholars for teaching and research engagements in 2025.

Texas A&M University

Founded in 1876 as Texas' first public institution of higher education, Texas A&M University is globally renowned for its academic excellence. With campuses in Galveston, Texas, and Doha, Qatar, the university offers over 140 undergraduate, 170 master's, 94 doctoral, and 5 professional degree programs. Its School of Law, headed by Prof. Robert “Bobby” Ahdieh, the Dean and G. Buzbee Endowed Dean's Chair, Vice President for Professional Schools & Programs, is recognized for its commitment to legal education and scholarship.

Remarks on the Collaboration

Prof. Vivekanandan, expressed his enthusiasm for the partnership, stating, “This collaboration with Texas A&M University is a significant milestone for HNLU. It aligns with their mission to provide global exposure to their students and faculty through initiatives like HEXA and H-VISA. They look forward to fruitful exchanges and joint ventures in teaching and research.” Prof. Srividya Ragavan, Director of International Programs and Distinguished Jurist

Professor at HNLU, played a pivotal role in facilitating the MoU. She remarked, “They are thrilled to partner with HNLU. This agreement lays the foundation for meaningful student and faculty exchanges, collaborative teaching, and groundbreaking research initiatives. They eagerly anticipate welcoming HNLU students to Texas A&M and vice versa.”

Key Focus Areas of the MoU

1. Faculty Exchange for Joint Teaching and Research: Promoting collaboration between faculty members of both institutions to enhance academic and research excellence.

2. Student Enrollment: Facilitating cultural and educational exchange by encouraging students to enroll in programs at both universities.

3. Future Agreements: Establishing a detailed Memorandum of Agreement to expand and deepen the scope of collaboration.

The MoU was officially signed by Prof. (Dr.) V.C. Vivekanandan, Vice-Chancellor of HNLU, and Dr. Holly Hudson, Associate Vice President for Global Engagement at Texas A&M University.

Future Outlook

HNLU is in advanced negotiations to finalize similar agreements with other prestigious universities, with announcements expected in early 2025. This partnership with Texas A&M University sets the stage for HNLU's continued commitment to globalizing legal education and fostering excellence through international collaborations.