Mumbai: Gemological Science International (GSI), a global leader in gemological services, and Dr. Homi Bhabha State University, Mumbai, signed a significant Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on 6th May, 2024 to collaborate on education, research, and technological advancements. The partnership marks a strategic step forward in bridging academia and industry to promote innovative learning and research, specifically in gemology and chemistry.
The MoU was signed by Ms. Deepa Srinivasa, Chief Gemologist, Gemological Science International (GSI) Mumbai, and Prof. Vilas Padhye, Registrar of Dr. Homi Bhabha State University (Mumbai). The event was attended by Dr. Vishal Banewar, Director of the Research & Incubation Center; Dr. Shubhangi Patil, Nodal Officer and Internship Head at Dr. Homi Bhabha State University (Mumbai); and Ms. Roshani Yeola, Assistant Professor at Elphinstone College (Mumbai).
The agreement aims to integrate academic excellence with practical industry insights, offering students hands-on experience through internship programs, while introducing advanced analytical techniques into the university’s curriculum. This collaboration highlights the importance of skill-building, employment, and lifelong learning in today’s rapidly evolving educational landscape.
As part of the agreement, GSI has welcomed two MSc students specializing in Organic Chemistry from Dr. Homi Bhabha State University to participate in a two-month internship. The students will work on a project titled “Understanding the Geographical Origin of Ruby, Sapphire, and Emeralds Using Spectroscopy,” which leverages advanced gemological techniques to enhance gemstone identification and analysis.
This collaboration is designed to create new pathways for students from Organic Chemistry backgrounds to apply their scientific knowledge in the field of gemology. Organic Chemistry, the study of carbon-based compounds, has wide-ranging applications in industries such as pharmaceuticals and biotechnology. Through this internship, the students will explore how their expertise in chemical structures, reactions, and spectroscopy can be used to identify and analyze gemstones, thus merging two seemingly distinct fields of study.
“At GSI, we believe in pushing the boundaries of learning and innovation. Our collaboration with Dr. Homi Bhabha State University is a perfect example of how interdisciplinary knowledge; chemistry and gemology in this case, can converge to create groundbreaking research and career opportunities for students,” said Ramit Kapur, Managing Director of GSI. “Through this MoU, we are equipping the next generation of professionals with technical skills, critical thinking abilities, and problem-solving capabilities that go far beyond gemology alone.”
The students have been trained in advanced spectroscopy techniques, including FTIR (Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy), UV-Vis (Ultraviolet-Visible Spectroscopy), and ED-XRF (Energy Dispersive X-ray Fluorescence). These methods allow them to analyze gemstone treatments, determine diamond types, and trace the geographical origins of precious stones. This project not only gives students practical experience but also sheds light on the wide-ranging applications of chemistry in gemological research.
In an increasingly competitive job market, partnerships between industry and academia are becoming essential for developing future-ready talent. MoUs like the one between GSI and Dr. Homi Bhabha State University provide students with real-world exposure, helping them transition smoothly into the workforce. They also encourage diversity in perspectives, combining academic rigor with the latest industry practices to drive innovation and problem-solving.
Dr. Vishal Banewar, the director of Dr. Homi Bhabha State University’s Research & Incubation Center, stated, “Our collaboration with GSI gives our students an exceptional opportunity to widen their perspectives. We are developing adaptable individuals who can think critically and apply their knowledge in novel ways by fusing chemistry with gemological research. This will position them for a variety of jobs in both research and industry.”
This internship program is also part of GSI’s broader Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) initiatives. GSI is deeply committed to supporting curriculum development, creating job opportunities, and addressing the crucial goal of employability. In addition to offering students hands-on experience in gemological research, GSI actively contributes to building sustainable industry-academia partnerships that benefit both students and the community at large.
“As part of our CSR efforts, GSI aims to invest in the future of education and employability. we ensure that students gain not only specialized technical training but also broader career opportunities in fields where scientific knowledge and practical skills intersect,” added Ramit Kapur.
The partnership between GSI and Dr. Homi Bhabha State University represents a progressive model for how academia and industry can work together to develop talent, promote innovation, and enhance employability in specialized fields.
