Nalanda, Peking University ink MoU for Xuanzang Centre for Asian Studies

Nalanda University in Rajgir, Bihar, is to establish the Xuanzang Centre for Asian Studies in collaboration with Peking University.

The two universities signed an MoU to enhance academic ties in the presence of President Pranab Mukherjee who is on a China visit.

Chancellor George Yeo and Peking University President Lin Jianhua signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) for academic cooperation earlier in the day. The two institutions agreed to make a joint effort in establishing a Xuanzang Centre for Asian Studies at Nalanda University besides taking several other steps to enhance academic ties, said a press statement.

The event was organised as a part of the China-India University Presidents Roundtable hosted by Peking University.

In his address to the University, President Mukherjee said, "As far back as the 6th century, seats of higher learning like Nalanda, Takshashila, Vikramashila, Valabhi, Somapura and Odantapuri had drawn scholars and cultivated contacts and academic exchanges with famed institutions of other countries in the region and beyond. "

Commenting on the signing of MoUs during the roundtable he said, "Today, I am happy to see central institutes of higher learning from India are signing Memorandums of Understanding for co-operation with partner institutions of China. I am confident that these understandings will create a collaborative platform for academic cooperation in the areas of research and education, joint seminars and exchange of faculty and students."

Nalanda and Peking will take several other steps to strengthen academic ties as a part of the MoU. Both institutions will develop exchange programmes and collaboration; promote exchange of relevant information concerning teaching development and scientific research; encourage exchange of visits of faculty members and encourage scholar/student exchange for research and study.

Speaking on this occasion, Chancellor George Yeo said, "This MoU will further strengthen our already existing ties with Peking University and also help build even greater understanding between two ancient civilizations."

President Lin Jianhua said, "The Xuanzang Centre for Asian Studies is an important step in building closer relations between the two universities."

Nalanda University Governing Board Member Professor Wang Bangwei, who is also the Director of the Institute of Oriental Studies and Oriental Literature Research Center at Peking University, was also present at the event along with Vice Chancellor Dr. Gopa Sabharwal, the statement said.

--IANS

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