Utkal University signs MoU with Capital Hospital

Bhubaneswar: A Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between Department of Psychology, Utkal University and Post Graduate Institute of Medical Education and Research (PGIMER) and Capital Hospital, Bhubaneswar was signed on Thursday in the presence of vice-chancellor, Utkal University Prof Sabita Acharya and Prof Nibedita Pani, director, PGIMER and Capital Hospital.

The collaboration will facilitate inter-institutional learning and research. The collaborative research would be undertaken where there are possibilities in inter-disciplinary research.

Provision of short-term learning experience and exposure in the areas of psychiatry, public health and other relevant inter-disciplinary areas such as positive psychology, mental health, stress management, and psychological counselling through workshops would mutually benefit the stakeholders concerned.

Moreover, cooperation in internship opportunities for students of Department of Psychology would also be included.

Prof Sabita Acharya said such collaboration would facilitate a holistic approach to health promotion in the state.

“Today it is imperative to integrate both physical and mental health in addressing any disease or disorder,’ she said. Prof Nibedita Pani, director, PGIMER and Capital Hospital, Bhubaneswar hailed this event as coming together of two of the leading institutions prioritising public health and mental health in Odisha.

Dr Avaya Kumar Nayak, registrar said that the collaboration will be mutually beneficial and all cooperation would be extended by the University.

Prof Bhaswati Patnaik, head of the Department of Psychology, Utkal University said that she was optimistic that such an agreement would boost quality inter-disciplinary research in the coming days as the hospital is expanding with new PG departments. Dr LD Sahoo, additional director, PGIMER & CHB, Prof Sujata Misra, medical superintendent, PGIMER & CHB, Prof Nigamananda Das, director CDC & IQAC, Utkal University and faculty members of Department of Psychology were also present on the occasion.