Indian and Indian-origin faculty at prestigious U.S. universities have launched a unique virtual mentoring initiative called the ‘MARG’ series, aimed at supporting students and researchers from India. Announced on Tuesday, this program is coordinated with India’s Ministry of Education and the University Grants Commission, focusing on connecting students from Indian universities—particularly those in smaller cities and towns—with top American universities.
The primary goal of the ‘MARG’ series, which stands for Mentoring for Academic Excellence and Research Guidance, is to expose Indian students and researchers to the latest advancements in their fields of study. Participants will receive valuable knowledge, career advice, skills training, and research opportunities from leading experts in the U.S.
Renowned Indian-origin faculty from institutions such as Stanford, Purdue, the University of Maryland, and George Mason University are set to take part in the inaugural round of the series.
During the launch, Deputy Chief of Mission Sripriya Ranganathan emphasized the growing academic and research ecosystem in India, particularly in critical and emerging technologies, including semiconductors, artificial intelligence (AI), machine learning (ML), high-performance computing, quantum science and technology, bioengineering, clean energy, and advanced materials. Ranganathan noted that collaboration in these sectors would strengthen the academic-research-technology partnership between India and the U.S.
Vice Chancellors and Directors from the participating Indian universities expressed optimism that the mentoring sessions would greatly benefit students and faculty engaged in teaching, skilling, and research in these vital areas.
