The University of Salford strengthens UK-India links through new partnership with Bharati Vidyapeeth

The agreement was signed during a special ceremony in Mumbai, India, on Tuesday 13 October, marking a significant step in strengthening collaboration between Greater Manchester and one of India's largest education and social enterprise groups.

The MoU establishes a framework for enhanced cooperation across teaching, research, innovation and enterprise, with a shared focus on addressing societal challenges and driving economic growth through education.

The partnership has already begun to deliver benefits through student and academic exchange visits. The University of Salford and Bharati Vidyapeeth share a commitment to advancing social justice, healthcare innovation, entrepreneurship and employability, recognising the important role universities play in addressing global challenges and creating opportunities for future generations. 

A key priority will also be student and faculty mobility, academic exchange and professional development, providing our students and academics with greater exposure to international perspectives, expertise and networks.

As part of the event, two senior leaders from Bharati Vidyapeeth were awarded Honorary Professorships by the University of Salford in recognition of their commitment to academic collaboration.

Dr Vishwajeet Patangrao Kadam, Pro Vice-Chancellor and Secretary, was appointed Honorary Professor. Dr Kadam provides strategic leadership across the wider Bharati Vidyapeeth group and serves as a Member of the Maharashtra Legislative Assembly. He has previously held ministerial responsibilities within the Government of Maharashtra.

Dr Asmita Jagtap, Executive Director of Bharati Vidyapeeth Health Sciences, was also appointed Honorary Professor. A qualified medical doctor and healthcare leader, Dr Jagtap oversees Bharati Vidyapeeth's hospitals and healthcare education programmes. She has led initiatives to expand access to healthcare, strengthen health education and improve community wellbeing, and has completed executive leadership programmes at Cornell University and Stanford University.

The occasion formed part of the University of Salford's participation in the landmark North of England Mayoral Trade Mission to India, delivered alongside Marketing Manchester, the British Council and regional partners. Among those attending the signing ceremony was Jo Ahmed MBA, Co-Chair of the Manchester India Partnership, who emphasised the importance of strengthening UK-India relations and the role universities play as drivers of innovation, skills and economic growth.

Jo Purves, Pro Vice-Chancellor Partnerships and Global Engagement at the University of Salford, said: "This MoU represents an exciting new chapter in our relationship with Bharati Vidyapeeth and demonstrates the power of international collaboration to create meaningful impact. By bringing together our knowledge in health, social enterprise, research and innovation, we can develop new opportunities for students and staff while addressing challenges that matter to our communities."

"I’d also like to welcome Dr Vishwajeet Patangrao Kadam and Dr Asmita Jagtap as Honorary Professors to our University - their leadership and expertise will deepen this collaboration further and support future joint initiatives."

Dr. Vishwajeet Patangrao Kadam, Pro Vice-Chancellor and Secretary at Bharati Vidyapeeth, said: “The formalisation of our MoU with the University of Salford marks an important milestone in our expanding global engagement across education, research, healthcare and social innovation. We are pleased to have the support of our senior leadership, alongside the Vice-Chancellor of Bharati Vidyapeeth (Deemed to be University). Their presence reflects the importance we place on building strong academic connections and creating meaningful opportunities for our students and faculty.

“The appointment of Dr. Asmita Jagtap and I as Honorary Professors of the University of Salford reflects the growing academic relationship between our institutions and our shared commitment to advancing education, healthcare and community development.”

Kuldeep Gaikwad, Deputy Registrar at Bharati Vidyapeeth, Director of Bharati Vidyapeeth AKSDC and UKIERI Fellow, added: “The formalisation of this partnership marks an important milestone in strengthening Bharati Vidyapeeth’s international engagement. Our collaboration with the University of Salford reflects our shared commitment to advancing education, research and innovation while creating meaningful opportunities for student and faculty exchange, knowledge sharing and international cooperation."