East Zone Vice-Chancellors’ Meet Focuses on Sustainability and Global Standards
The East Zone Vice-Chancellors’ Meet 2025–26 concluded in Patna with a strong call to align higher education in India with global innovation and sustainability goals.
The two-day event took place at Aryabhatta Knowledge University (AKU) and brought together academic leaders from across the region.
Focus on Sustainability and Social Responsibility
A special session highlighted the need to promote sustainability and social responsibility in higher education institutions.
AIU Secretary General Pankaj Mittal explained how universities can play an active role in these areas. She shared practical examples and stressed the importance of inclusive and responsible education.
AIU’s Role in Strengthening Indian Higher Education
The Association of Indian Universities (AIU) has served as a key body in Indian higher education since 1925. It currently represents 1,175 universities, including 20 international institutions, making it one of the world’s oldest and largest academic networks.
‘India Must Match Global Technical Innovation’
Speaking at the meet, AIU President and Vice-Chancellor Vinay Kumar Pathak said India must focus on quality education for all students, regardless of financial background.
He said Indian institutions should aim to match global technical innovation, not remain limited to assembling products developed elsewhere. This approach is essential to achieve the vision of “Viksit Bharat”, he added.
Call to Attract Foreign Students to India
CIMP-Patna Director Rana Singh praised the efforts of Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar and AKU VC Sharad Kumar Yadav for improving the state’s education system.
He said India must prepare for the globalisation of education. Institutions should work to attract foreign students rather than sending Indian students abroad for quality education. He cited IITs as examples that are working to reverse this trend.
Reviving Nalanda’s Legacy
Rana Singh also said Bihar can revive the legacy of Nalanda University, recognised as the world’s first university. He noted that this heritage can help position Bihar as a global education hub.
Meet Boosts Academic Engagement
AKU Vice-Chancellor Sharad Kumar Yadav said the meet created a vibrant academic environment on campus. He added that the discussions were enriching and helped strengthen collaboration among institutions.
