Assam University Inks MoU for Safe E-Waste Disposal, Flags Off Decades-Old Gadgets Clearance

Assam University has launched a comprehensive electronic waste (e-waste) management initiative on campus, marking a significant step towards strengthening its environmental sustainability efforts. As part of the programme, the university has also signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with BinBag, a specialised e-waste management organisation, to ensure scientific collection and eco-friendly recycling of electronic waste generated on the campus and in nearby areas.

The MoU was signed at a programme organised at the Department of Computer Science, in the presence of Vice Chancellor Prof. Rajive Mohan Pant and Assam Pollution Control Board Chairman Pradip Kumar Mishra. Dr Anshuman Sen, In-Charge Registrar of Assam University, and Achitra Borgohain, Founder Director of BinBag, inked the agreement on behalf of their respective institutions.

Following the signing ceremony, the Vice Chancellor and the Board Chairman jointly flagged off the university’s newly introduced e-waste collection vehicle. On its first trip, the vehicle transported computers, printers and various electronic equipment that had been lying unused for nearly three decades.

Addressing the gathering, Vice Chancellor Prof. Pant said that in a technology-driven age, e-waste has become a major global concern. “As a centre of knowledge, we cannot afford to fall behind in discharging our responsibilities. This agreement is not just a formal document — it is a firm commitment by the university towards environmental protection,” he said.

Head of the Computer Science Department, Prof. Prodipto Das, noted that computer scientists are both creators and primary users of technology. Therefore, he said, it is their responsibility to ensure that electronic devices are disposed of responsibly at the end of their lifecycle. He added that the initiative would provide students with valuable real-world exposure to sustainable technology practices.

With the MoU in place and the collection vehicle operational, Assam University aims to set up a systematic, long-term e-waste management framework on campus.