The Pakistan Institute of Fashion and Design (PIFD) on Monday signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with the Bangkok-based Asian Institute of Gemological Sciences (AIGS). The MoU, which envisages collaboration in a range of activities in the area of gemology and jewellery design, was signed by PIFD’s Vice Chancellor Hina Tayyaba. On the AIGS side, General Manager Ms. Benyaphat Chatch on but signed the MoU.
Pakistan’s Ambassador to Thailand Sohail Mahmood and other senior embassy officials were present on the occasion.
Establishing a formal collaborative framework, the MoU inter alia provides for exchange of students 
for training, faculty exchanges, mutual cooperation at exhibitions and trade fairs, joint research activities, and arranging students’ internship with the industry.
The PIFD is a premier fashion design institute in Pakistan with six constituent colleges. In 2011, the institute was chartered by the Government of Pakistan with degree-awarding status.
The AIGS is among Southeast Asia ‘s first educational facilities devoted exclusively to the study of gemology. Established in 1978, the AIGS offers knowledge and expertise for building appreciation of gemstones and imparts professional training for those involved in gem and jewellery trade.
Ambassador Sohail Mahmood described the signing of MoU as a significant step forward in building a long-term, collaborative partnership between the PIFD and the AIGS. This, he added, was part of the broader efforts to forge linkages between academic institutions in Pakistan and Thailand and to strengthen bilateral cooperation in the arena of creative economy.
