Kannur: Kannur University's Central Library named after German scholar and linguist Hermann Gundert will get aid from Germany for purchasing books. German consul-general Jorn Rohde, who visited the University and the Library, promised authorities that he would implement a programme for providing books to the library, which is the largest in South India in terms of infrastructure.
A basic German learning programme will also start at the Library in association with the Goethe-Zentrum, the German cultural centre in Kerala based in Thiruvananthapuram. The Consul General has given directions to the Goethe-Zentrum Director Dr Syed Ibrahim to take steps in this regard, according to the University authorities.
"We will send our faculty to the varsity. Those who are interested in studying German can take it up as an optional language. Goethe-Zentrum will provide them with international certification. By the time the students graduate, they will get certificates in the German language," Goethe-Zentrum Director Dr Syed Ibrahim. "Knowledge and proficiency in German will help the students get placements not just in Germany, but in German companies working in India," he added.
The Consul General in his talks with the varsity authorities also responded positively to extend tie ups between Kannur and German universities. "Our MBA department already has tie-ups with Calw and Riedlingen Universities in Germany. We are looking for such collaborations in other departments too," said Kannur University PVC Dr T Ashokan.
Mr Rohde also visited the Palayad campus of Kannur University at Thalassery and Gundert's residence at Illikkunnu. The Consul General has also expressed willingness to give financial aid to convert Gundert's Bungalow into a museum if requested.
