The University of Mumbai and University of South Africa on the Mahatma’s death anniversary agreed on a student-exchange programme aimed at better understanding the values exemplified by the freedom fighter and their relevance to management students.

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In fact, Monday saw a group of 15 students and professors from the University of South Africa landing at the University of Mumbai to explore more academic exchanges. “There is much to be learned from India in terms of sustaining small-scale industries, especially when unemployment is a major concern for the 60 per cent of our below-35 population,” said law student Nhlamulo Siwela of University of SA.

Stating that nothing could have been more binding than Gandhi — respected by both countries, Valiant A Clapper, Head of the Graduate School of Business Leadership, South Africa, said, “On Gandhi Jayanti last year, Mumbai students had come calling on us and on the Mahatma’s death anniversary, we are here to explore academic exchange.”

“We’ve identified some research scope in sustainable development, water reticulation, water economy, greening of society and training of women and children. While both countries face similar issues, these were also important objectives from Gandhiji’s agenda,” said Clapper.

Tracey Cohen, a Masters in Business Management student who is part of the SA group, was impressed with the way the “heritage building of University of Mumbai at Fort is maintained”. 

Associate professor Kavita Laghate of Jamnalal Bajaj Institute of Management, who is co-ordinating the visit said, “The team is here in until February 4, till when it will visit various management and commerce institutes in the city, with the aim of future associations.”