TOI Education
Jun 19, 2024
Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated Nalanda University's new campus, marking a significant milestone in higher education and the revival of historical glory. The campus is situated near the ancient ruins in Rajgir, Bihar, a site of profound historical and educational significance.
Image Source: Agencies
Nalanda University now comprises six schools:School of Buddhist Studies, Philosophy & Comparative Religions, School of Historical Studies, School of Ecology and Environmental Studies, School of Sustainable Development and Management
Image Source: Agencies
The newly inaugurated campus, constructed at a cost of Rs 1,749 crore, features 24 large buildings, marking a new chapter in the university's journey towards modernity while preserving its historical significance.
Image Source: Agencies
The university offers 137 scholarships to international students. Students enrolled in the postgraduate programmes (2022-24, 2023-25) and the PhD programme (2023-27) hail from diverse countries including Argentina, Bangladesh, Bhutan, Cambodia, and many more.
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Nalanda University collaborates with 17 nations through MoUs to support the institution. Partner countries include Australia, Bangladesh, Bhutan, Brunei Darussalam, Cambodia, China, Indonesia, Laos, Mauritius, Myanmar, New Zealand, Portugal, Singapore, South Korea, Sri Lanka, Thailand, and Vietnam.
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Vice-chancellor Abhay Kumar Singh highlighted the meticulous methods used to integrate the new campus with the ancient structures of Nalanda, ensuring a seamless blend of historical and modern elements.
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The university is home to the world's largest library, housing over three lakh books and manuscripts, serving as a rich resource for students and scholars from around the world.
Image Source: Agencies
The foundation stone for the new campus was laid in 2016. Thanks to a special initiative by Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar, 455 acres of land were acquired in Rajgir and handed over to the university administration.
Image Source: Agencies
Founded in the fifth century, ancient Nalanda University thrived for 800 years before succumbing to invaders in the 12th century. Established in 427 CE, it is considered the world's first residential university, attracting 10,000 students from across Asia to learn medicine, logic, mathematics, and Buddhist principles from revered scholars.
Image Source: Agencies
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