Rajgir: Nalanda University in Rajgir inaugurated the East Asia Summit (EAS) Conclave of Heads of Higher Education Institutions on Wednesday, alongside a knowledge exchange workshop on energy efficiency and Mission LiFE. The three-day event is being attended by leaders, scholars and policy experts from 18 participating countries.
The ceremony at the Sushma Swaraj Auditorium began with the lighting of the traditional lamp and the felicitation of dignitaries. In his welcome address, Professor Sachin Chaturvedi, Vice Chancellor of Nalanda University, thanked the Ministry of External Affairs, RIS, TERI, ASEAN partners and other delegates.
Reflecting on Asia’s intellectual traditions, he spoke of the convergence between the humanities and natural sciences, the philosophy of shunyata and oneness, and Nalanda’s commitment to net zero goals. “Nalanda is a living idea of knowledge without boundaries,” Chaturvedi said. “As we gather here, we reaffirm that education and cooperation remain the strongest pathways to peace, sustainability and shared prosperity.”
Professor Sachin Kumar Sharma, Director General of RIS, underlined the importance of deeper research and institutional collaboration across the EAS region. TERI’s Jiwesh Nandan emphasised the need for lifestyle changes to achieve sustainability under Mission LiFE, while Professor Ngo Thi Phuong Lan from Vietnam spoke of Nalanda’s legacy and the urgent call for climate action.
Delivering the keynote address, Periasamy Kumaran, Secretary (East) at the Ministry of External Affairs, highlighted ASEAN partnerships and the role of digital research, formally declaring the conclave open. He said Nalanda symbolises India’s civilisational linkages with Asia and continues to inspire collective progress.
Following the inaugural and a group photograph outside the auditorium, delegates attended a cultural programme showcasing India’s artistic traditions before concluding the evening with a gala dinner.
