Nalanda University project has implications on globalised world
By Hoe Yeen Nie, Channel NewsAsia | Posted: 19 February 2009 0231 hrs






 



 



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George Yeo (file pic)


 
 


 











































SINGAPORE: The Nalanda University 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.




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







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