FLAME University and the Organisation for Research on China and Asia (ORCA), New Delhi, recently renewed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) for Academic and Research Cooperation for the second consecutive year. This collaboration highlights a shared commitment to fostering student research, providing real-time work experiences, and bridging the gap between academic learning and practical exposure.
In an interactive session with FLAME students on 18th November, 2024, key representatives from ORCA shared valuable insights and experiences. The session featured Ms. Eerishika Pankaj, Director of ORCA, along with Senior Research Associates Mr. Rahul Karan Reddy and Mr. Omkar Bhole, Junior Research Associate Ms. Trishala S, and Research Associate Mr. Ratish Mehta. They delved into various aspects of professional development, including career prospects in the social sciences, publication opportunities, internships at ORCA, and the broader scope of working within academia and research institutions.
The speakers emphasized the transformative potential of pursuing degrees in international studies, public policy, and related disciplines. They shared personal anecdotes, highlighting how their educational journeys and professional experiences shaped their careers and opened doors to the think tank sector. The session also shed light on the unique opportunities available to FLAME students through the MoU, particularly in terms of collaborative research projects, mentorship programs, and pathways to publishing in academic journals and policy platforms.
Ms. Pankaj spoke about ORCA’s vision to create meaningful academic partnerships that equip students with critical skills and a global perspective. Students actively engaged in the session, posing questions about the challenges and rewards of a career in research, the relevance of interdisciplinary approaches, and the evolving nature of social science disciplines in the modern world. The ORCA team responded by encouraging students to view their undergraduate years as a foundational period for building a robust academic profile and exploring diverse career avenues.
The session also introduced a week-long engagement planned at FLAME University, featuring a podcast General Body Meeting (GBM) with students, two interactive workshops, and one-on-one career evaluation sessions.
With the MoU now in its second year, both FLAME University and ORCA are poised to deepen their collaboration, offering more structured programs, workshops, and immersive research opportunities. The partnership not only enhances the academic ecosystem at FLAME but also aligns with ORCA’s mission to advance research and foster a culture of intellectual curiosity among young scholars.
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