Patna: Representatives of the Swiss National Science Foundation (SNSF) and the Indian Council of Social Science Research (ICSSR) met Bihar Chief Minister Samrat Choudhary in Patna on Friday to discuss opportunities for strengthening social science research and academic collaboration in the state.
The delegation included Professor Max Bergman and Dr Jeanette Bergman, representing SNSF, along with Prof Dhananjay Singh, Member Secretary of ICSSR, and MLC Neeraj Kumar.
Focus on research and academic exchanges
During the meeting, representatives of SNSF and ICSSR expressed interest in encouraging social science research in Bihar and collaborating with the state government on academic and research initiatives.
The organisations discussed opportunities to strengthen the research ecosystem, promote academic exchanges and create new avenues for research in the social sciences.
SNSF is currently collaborating with ICSSR in India across areas including digital governance, space science, disaster management and artificial intelligence.
‘Social sciences crucial for policymaking’
CM Samrat Choudhary said social science research has become increasingly important in understanding the needs of society and developing effective public welfare policies.
He said research can help provide a stronger foundation for policymaking by offering a better understanding of social conditions and people’s requirements.
Welcoming the proposals put forward by SNSF and ICSSR, CM Choudhary said collaboration with international institutions and universities would be important for Bihar’s academic development, skill-building and research ecosystem.
Push for global academic partnerships
The Chief Minister also called for greater coordination between social sciences and scientific disciplines to develop new research methodologies and accelerate academic and social progress in the state.
He invited SNSF and ICSSR to expand their research and academic activities in Bihar and expressed confidence that stronger partnerships would contribute to the goals of a developed India and a prosperous Bihar.
CM Choudhary further said support from institutions operating at global standards could strengthen Bihar’s ongoing academic and research initiatives and help establish the state as a prominent centre for knowledge and innovation.
