On 9th June 2023, Letter of Understanding (LoU) was signed between Jigme Namgyel Engineering College (JNEC), Royal University of Bhutan (RUB), and Edith Cowan University (ECU) in Australia. The signing ceremony took place at the Office of the Vice Chancellor in Thimphu. Professor Daryoush Habibi, Pro Vice- Chancellor and Executive Dean of the School of Engineering at ECU, and Mr. Sangay Chedup, Dean of Research and Industrial Linkages at JNEC, RUB, represented their respective institutions. The ceremony was attended by Professor Douglas CHAI, the Associate Dean from ECU, Mr. Hemlal Bhattarai, Assistant Professor from JNEC, and Mr. Mani Gyeltshen, the Chief Human Resource Officer from the Office of the Vice Chancellor, RUB.
The signing of the Credit and Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) Agreement marks a significant milestone between the two institutions. As per the agreement, engineering graduates from JNEC who wish to pursue further studies at the School of Engineering at ECU will be eligible for lateral entry. This agreement provides a pathway for JNEC graduates to seamlessly transition into ECU’s engineering program. However, it is important to note that the credit transfer and RPL arrangement is not guaranteed for all aspiring students and will be assessed on an individual case-by-case basis. ECU will make the final decision based on the information provided by prospective students during the enrollment process.
Further, it is essential to understand that credit and RPL arrangements are subject to periodic review and may be subject to change in the future. Both institutions will regularly evaluate and update the terms of the agreement to ensure its continued effectiveness.
In addition to the signing of the agreement, the representatives took the opportunity to discuss various other areas of collaboration. Two institutions will continue to explore further opportunities for cooperation and knowledge exchange beyond the scope of the credit and RPL agreement.