Nalanda University project has implications on globalised world

Nalanda University project has implications on globalised world
By Hoe Yeen Nie, Channel NewsAsia

SINGAPORE: The Nalanda University (pics from google and others )in India's Bihar state is part of a larger Asian renaissance, says Singapore's Foreign Minister George Yeo. And its emphasis on the free exchange of ideas has implications on today's globalised world.

Some paintings by Singapore artist Tan Swie Hian are inspired by India's Nalanda University, a centre of intellectual open-mindedness in the ancient world.

Its modern-day revival is driven by the desire to bring back that spirit of enlightenment.

The Nalanda University of the fifth century was, for many years, the seat of Buddhist learning, attracting scholars from all over Asia. (See Ancient universities in India)

And in a nod to this ancient heritage, the Nalanda of the 21st century hopes to be a centre for inter-faith dialogue, and a bridge between South and East Asia.

The secular varsity will have six faculties, offering post-graduate studies in philosophy, tourism and Asian history.

Singapore's foreign minister - who is a member of a multi-national steering group behind the project, called the Nalanda Mentor Group - said it is part of a larger Asian renaissance. But it will take some years to bear fruit.

Mr Yeo said: "There'll be many practical problems, because Nalanda will be established in the state of Bihar, which is one of the more backward states in India. Infrastructure is woeful. But the plans are there, it will take time, the important thing is support from the highest levels in India."

The steering group's first meeting was in Singapore two years ago. Since then, discussions have been held in Tokyo, New York and New Delhi.

The final meeting will take place in Bihar, India, on Thursday, and a proposal will be presented at the East Asian Summit in Thailand at the end of the month.

The university was initially set to admit its first students this year, but Mr Yeo said that would not be likely now because of administrative issues.

- CNA/de

- wong chee tat :)