UNIVERSITY NETWORK (UNINET)

The IMT-GT University Network (UNINET) connects higher education institutions across the subregion. It was established in 1996 and initially comprised eight universities in the network. During the IB 2017–2021 period, UNINET leveraged the WGHRDEC to expand its influence and networks. The signing of the UNINET Charter in 2017 had further institutionalized UNINET as a subregional body and formalized its cooperation agenda. Acknowledging the UNINET’s growing role, expanding network, and in-depth local knowledge, the 27th IMTGT Ministerial Meeting held on 6 August 2021 had agreed for UNINET to be an independent think tank for IMT-GT.

Functions and Responsibilities

- Take role as a think tank for IMT-GT government, business sectors, working groups and other relevant stakeholders.
- Produce innovation to support the subregional economy and address pressing issues in the subregion.
- Collaborate with IMT-GT working groups to accelerate the implementation of IMT-GT projects and programmes.
- Strengthen collaboration amongst universities in IMT-GT subregion to produce skilful society.
- Support Human Capital Development in IMT-GT subregion.
- Strengthen people-to-people connectivity, especially in the area of culture and education.

Structure

- UNINET Chairmanship rotates every three years amongst the member countries in an alphabetical order and one of the universities representing the country should be responsible for the chairmanship position.
- The venue of the UNINET meeting rotates amongst member countries in an alphabetical order.
- As a standalone entity, UNINET reports all of its activities or programmes to the IMT-GT SOM. For coordination purposes, UNINET shall also provide their report to the Centre for IMT-GT Subregional Cooperation (CIMT).