Prime Minister Narendra Modi is set to inaugurate the new campus of Nalanda University in Bihar’s historic town of Rajgir today. This momentous occasion marks a significant step forward in the realm of education and international collaboration.
Nalanda University, with its roots dating back to the fifth century, once stood as a beacon of knowledge and learning. Scholars from across the world flocked to its hallowed halls, making it a global center for Buddhist studies, philosophy, and comparative religions. For nearly 800 years, Nalanda thrived, nurturing intellectual curiosity and fostering cultural exchange.
However, the ancient university faced a tragic fate. In the 12th century, invading forces razed its magnificent structures, extinguishing the flames of enlightenment that had burned so brightly for centuries. But today, as we inaugurate the new campus, we honor that legacy and rekindle the spirit of Nalanda.
The Nalanda University Act of 2010 paved the way for the establishment of the modern Nalanda University. Situated less than 20 kilometers from the ancient ruins, the new campus stands as a testament to continuity and progress. Here are some key features:
International Collaboration: Nalanda University transcends national boundaries. Alongside India, 17 other nations—Australia, Bangladesh, Bhutan, Brunei Darussalam, Cambodia, China, Indonesia, Laos, Mauritius, Myanmar, New Zealand, Portugal, Singapore, South Korea, Sri Lanka, Thailand, and Vietnam—have joined hands to support this academic endeavor.
Scholarships for Global Minds: The university offers 137 scholarships to international students, fostering cross-cultural exchange and academic excellence. Enrolled students hail from diverse countries, including Argentina, Ghana, Nepal, and the USA.
Six Schools of Learning: Nalanda’s new campus houses six schools, each dedicated to a specific field:
School of Buddhist Studies, Philosophy & Comparative Religions: Continuing the ancient tradition of exploring spiritual wisdom.
School of Historical Studies: Unraveling the past to inform the present.
School of Ecology and Environmental Studies: Addressing pressing global challenges.
School of Sustainable Development and Management: Equipping future leaders with the tools for a sustainable world.
A Bridge to the Past: The new campus stands close to the ancient ruins, bridging the gap between antiquity and modernity. As we walk these corridors, we honor the scholars who once roamed these very grounds.
Prime Minister Modi aptly describes today as a “special day for our education sector.” Nalanda University’s new campus symbolizes hope, resilience, and the pursuit of knowledge. It beckons to the youth, inviting them to explore, question, and shape a better world.