TMU Signs Landmark MoU with the University of the Philippines Manila

Teerthanker Mahaveer University (TMU) has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the University of the Philippines Manila (College of Arts and Sciences) to foster academic and research collaboration in forensic science. The agreement, formalised on 28th February 2025 during the international conference ‘Health Force 2025,’ marks a significant milestone in forensic research and education.

Key Highlights of the MoU

The MoU aims to:

• Upgrade and share forensic research facilities between both institutions.
• Offer enhanced internship and training opportunities for TMU’s forensic science students.
• Facilitate knowledge exchange on forensic career opportunities.
• Collaborate on forensic research at a global level, opening new avenues for innovation and development.

Benchmarking Meeting and Discussions

Before the MoU signing, a benchmarking meeting was conducted at TMU’s College of Paramedical Sciences. Prof. (Dr.) Navneet Kumar, Principal of the College of Paramedical Sciences, welcomed the esteemed delegates from the University of the Philippines Manila.

Dr. Ma. Teresa G.de Guzman, Professor & Dean, College of Arts and Sciences, U.P.-Manila, expressed her enthusiasm for the collaboration and emphasized its potential for mutual academic and research benefits. She proposed the introduction of a Master’s Degree in Forensic Behavioral Science at the University of the Philippines, with support from TMU under the MoU.

Further discussions centered around critical areas such as:

• Community forensic, forensic ethics, and forensic biology.
• Crime scene investigation training and forensic research methodologies.
• Verbal autopsy for determining causes of death in suspicious cases.
• DNA profiling facilities to advance forensic research.
• Disaster victim identification using molecular techniques.

MOU Signing Ceremony

The MoU was officially signed by Dr. Ma. Teresa G.de Guzman from the University of Philippines, Manila, and Prof. (Dr.) Manjula Jain, Dean Academics, TMU. TMU’s Honourable Vice-Chancellor congratulated the delegates and emphasized the importance of the real-world implementation of this collaboration. He highlighted potential opportunities such as:

• Student and faculty exchange programs.
• Online and offline training modules.
• New forensic research and innovation initiatives.

Prof. (Dr.) Manjula Jain also emphasized knowledge exchange through joint research programs, ensuring a strong academic partnership between the two institutions.

Future Prospects and Implementation

The collaboration between TMU and the University of the Philippines Manila is expected to drive significant advancements in forensic science, benefiting students, researchers, and forensic professionals globally. This MoU will serve as a gateway for future forensic breakthroughs, helping students gain hands-on experience and exposure to global forensic practices.