Gaya: Magadh University is set to host its first-ever large-scale alumni meet, ‘Mahasangam 2026’, on Saturday at its Bodh Gaya campus, in what officials describe as an effort to reconnect with former students and revitalise the institution’s academic standing.
The event will be inaugurated by Lt. Gen. (Rtd.) Syed Ata Hasnain, governor of Bihar and chancellor of state universities. Preparations have intensified in recent days, with the administration holding multiple review meetings and coordinating logistics through a dedicated core team.
Vice-chancellor Prof. Shashi Pratap Shahi said the gathering is intended to go beyond a conventional reunion. “This is a platform to shape the future of the university,” he said, adding that alumni from across India and abroad are expected to attend.
Several prominent political figures are also expected, including union MSME minister Jitan Ram Manjhi, Bihar assembly speaker Prem Kumar, former minister Ashok Chaudhary and legislative council member Naval Kishore Yadav.
University officials said the meet marks the first time alumni are being brought together on such a scale. Beyond nostalgia, the initiative aims to harness alumni expertise to strengthen research, innovation and infrastructure, with the broader goal of restoring the university’s past stature.
Registrar Binod Kumar Mangalam said preparations have been completed, with separate teams handling accommodation, security and reception. “Monitoring is being carried out at every level,” he said.
According to event coordinator Nibha Singh, the programme will include cultural performances, experience-sharing sessions and an awards ceremony. Organisers say the meet is expected to foster networking and revive long-standing connections among alumni.
As part of the event, the department of political science hosted a lecture on “Viksit Bharat @2047: Challenges and Opportunities” on Friday. The session featured Sudhir Kumar Singh of University of Delhi as chief guest, with founder vice chancellor of Munger university and former prov-c of Patna university and retired professor of MU chemistry department Prof. Ranjit Kumar Verma attending as guest of honour.
Speaking at the lecture, Singh invoked the ideas of Kautilya while outlining the vision of a developed India, highlighting contemporary challenges and the need for inclusivity. Prof. Verma emphasised strengthening India’s position as a global manufacturing hub, reviving cultural heritage and investing in science and technology.
The session was presided over by the vice-chancellor, with Anjani Kumar Ghosh serving as convenor. Faculty members, students and research scholars attended in large numbers, underscoring the significance of the wider alumni initiative.
