New Delhi: Recognising its contribution in creating a knowledge society, UNESCO on Wednesday designated Indian Institute of Technology-Bombay (IIT-B) as a 'Knowledge Heritage Centre'.

The designation has come as the premier technology institute is observing its yearlong golden jubilee celebrations. Minja Yang, Director UNESCO, New Delhi, conferred the designation on IIT-B at a function in the capital.

"IIT-Bombay was originally established with the cooperation and participation of UNESCO, and over the past 50 years it has grown in stature as an institution of national importance and a leader in higher education, research and training. UNESCO is delighted to renew and strengthen its partnership with it," Yang said.

"UNESCO promotes international cooperation and serves as a clearinghouse for the dissemination and sharing of information and knowledge, particularly in education and the natural sciences," she added.

Signing an agreement with the UNESCO to strengthen research and innovation, IIT-B Director Ashok Misra said, his institute would strive to boost knowledge and innovation, with a special focus on supporting sustained and inclusive growth in Indian society.

He said both the organisations would work to promote traditional technology and renewable energy for people-focused, sustainable development.

Fostering human and institutional capacities to improve security through sustainable development is a core mission of UNESCO, Yang explained.

"These are crucial issues for India as much as for any country. We are pleased that IIT-B, as a leader in creating a knowledge society, takes these responsibilities seriously, and we look forward to collaborating on programmes to address emerging environmental challenges and raise awareness about climate change."

Misra pointed out that both IIT-B and UNESCO work through academic and research collaborations with national and international universities, governments and industries to meet the immediate needs of society.

IIT-Bombay was one of the early higher institutes of technology established by the Government of India to set the direction for the development of technical education in the country, at the level of their counterparts in Europe and the US. The Institute began admitting students in 1958.

Currently, the institute has nearly 2,100 undergraduate and 3,200 postgraduate students.