‘Nalanda varsity must put Bihar on international education map’

Germany and Australia too have shown they are keen to be part of it, says Minister

External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj plants a sapling on the Nalanda University campus on Friday. Photo: Ranjeet Kumar

Nalanda University should put Bihar on the international education map, Minister for External Affairs Sushma Swaraj said on Friday. She was formally inaugurating the academic session of the varsity at Rajgir convention hall where temporary classes are currently on in two disciplines with 15 students and 10 faculty members.

‘Revive glory’

Ms. Swaraj said it was a historic day marking a “bridge to our future from its ancient glory”. “We seek to revive the old tradition of the Nalanda University as tradition never dies. This University is to seek, to discover and to create intellectual activities not only in Bihar but the whole world,” said Ms. Swaraj and hoped that the would become a centre of excellence.

“We’re on the threshold of making history and Bihar should be on the international education map,” she added.

Worldwide attention

Recollecting her recent visit to Bangladesh, Ms. Swaraj said people there showed a keen interest to be part of Nalanda Universiry.

“Germany and Australia too have shown they are keen to be part of it,” she said. The Union government has sanctioned Rs. 2,727 crore for the university, said the Minister.

Earlier, she along with Bihar Chief Minister Jiten Ram Manjhi planted trees at the new campus. Representatives and ambassadors of 10 countries, including Australia and Germany, were present at the inauguration along with members of the governing body Lord Meghnad Desai and N.K. Singh.

Mr. Manjhi said just like in the times of the ancient Nalanda University, his government would like to create a “development authority” for the smooth functioning of the University as well as the surrounding villages.

Support for airport

He also requested the Union government’s support for a new airport in Rajgir.

“We need support from the Modi government for the all-round development of Bihar. We also need to revive ancient seats of learning like Vikramshila and Takshila Universities,” he said.

The new university will have seven schools and the admission process has already begun. The Historical Studies and Ecological and Environment Studies programmes started on September 1.

About 450 acres have been provided to the new university, 12 km from the ancient Nalanda ruins, which is expected to be complete by 2020.