By Dr. Zafar Iqbal
“The academic standard of AMU is showing upward trend and plans are underway to upgrade research and library facilities and the infrastructure of the university,” said AMU Vice-Chancellor Professor P K Abdul Azis addressing a gathering of Aligarh Alumni Association of Metropolitan Washington (AAA) members on Wednesday, 13th August, 2008 in Washington.
A large number of AMU alumni, academicians and community leaders attended the reception-dinner given by the AAA in honor of the visiting VC. Counselor Mr. Alok Pandey represented the Indian Embassy in Washington.
Professor Azis is in the US to sign memorandums of understanding (MOUs) with seven US universities with an aim to open new educational and job opportunities for AMU students and scholars. The Federation of Aligarh Alumni Association in America arranged Professor Azis’ visit.
The VC appraised the audience about the steps taken by the university regarding proposals submitted to the University Grants Commission and other governmental agencies seeking financial support needed to upgrade the existing facilities, especially in the area of biotechnology, information technology, medicine and engineering.
Professor Azis’ Washington itinerary also included visits to George Washington University Law School and Johns Hopkins University’s Nitze School of Advanced International Studies for discussions related to cooperative programs with AMU. He also had discussion with Ambassador Raminder S. Jassal, Deputy Chief of Mission, Embassy of India in Washington.
Mr. and Mrs. Fakhrul Islam hosted the reception at their residence. Welcoming the VC, Mr. Islam expressed his gratitude for Professor Azis’ dedication for the university. Introducing the VC, Dr. A. Abdullah highlighted some of the recent developments the university has made under the stewardship of Prof. Azis. Mr. Tariq Farooqi, Chairman, Board of Trustees presented a plaque to the VC on behalf of AAA. Dr. Afshan Hashmi (GRBS) and Mr. Kaleem Kawaja (AIM) also gave a plaque and a bouquet, respectively. The program concluded with chorus rendition of the Aligarh Tarana. The AAA President, Dr. Fazal Khan, conducted the meeting and Secretary, Dr. Zafar Iqbal gave vote of thanks.