The MoU Will Enhance and Strengthen Cooperation Between AIT and The Rockefeller Foundation
BANGKOK, THAILAND | May 23, 2023 ― The Asian Institute of Technology (AIT) and The Rockefeller Foundation have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to establish a framework for collaboration between the two organizations. The MoU was signed in the presence of Natalye Paquin, Chief Operating Officer of The Rockefeller Foundation, Deepali Khanna, Vice President, Asia Regional Office, The Rockefeller Foundation and Prof. Kazuo Yamamoto, Interim President of the Asian Institute of Technology.
It aims to promote and strengthen cooperation between AIT and The Rockefeller Foundation in areas of mutual interest in the region including climate change, accelerating sustainable energy transition, health, agriculture, and gender empowerment. The organizations are now exploring research agendas across these areas of mutual focus.
“We are pleased to establish this MoU with The Rockefeller Foundation, as it will enable us to collaborate and leverage our strengths in the areas of education, research, and capacity building. Through this partnership, we can create sustainable solutions and contribute to the development goals of the region,” said Prof. Kazuo Yamamoto, Interim President of the Asian Institute of Technology.
“The Rockefeller Foundation is committed to advancing breakthrough solutions, ideas, and conversations that promote the well-being of humanity. We are excited to further build upon our partnership with AIT to identify innovative solutions to addressing sustainable development challenges in the Asia region,” said Deepali Khanna, Vice President, Asia Regional Office, The Rockefeller Foundation.
The Rockefeller Foundation has a lasting relationship with Thailand dating back to 1917, when The Rockefeller Foundation initiated Thailand’s anti-hookworm campaign and supported the establishment of the country’s first Ministry of Health.
The Rockefeller Foundation collaborated with the Government of Thailand between 1917-1934 to establish medical and nursing education in the country with Prince Mahidol’s assistance. Since 1990, The Rockefeller Foundation has supported over 36 projects at Mahidol University by granting close to $8.8 million in funds for these initiatives in agriculture, health, and nutrition.
The Rockefeller Foundation is celebrating its 110th anniversary this month.
About the Asian Institute of Technology (AIT)
The Asian Institute of Technology (AIT) is an international institute of higher learning established in 1959 to help meet the region’s growing needs for advanced learning in engineering, science, technology and management, research and capacity building. AIT’s mission is to develop highly qualified and committed professionals who will play a leading role in the sustainable development of the region and its integration into the global economy.
About The Rockefeller Foundation
The Rockefeller Foundation is a pioneering philanthropy built on collaborative partnerships at the frontiers of science, technology, and innovation that enable individuals, families, and communities to flourish. We make big bets to promote the well-being of humanity and make opportunity universal and sustainable. Our focus is on scaling renewable energy for all, stimulating economic mobility, and ensuring equitable access to health care and nutritious food. For more information, sign up for our newsletter at rockefellerfoundation.org and follow us on Twitter @RockefellerFdn.
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Gurpratap Singh
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