Rajgir, Nalanda, 19 September 2025: Three day East Asia Summit (EAS) Conclave of Heads of Higher Education Institutions and the EAS Knowledge Exchange Workshop on Energy Efficiency Policies & LiFE (Lifestyle for Environment) concluded today with a valedictory session and vote of thanks delivered by Vice Chancellor Professor Sachin Chaturvedi.

The inaugural edition of the EAS conclave (17–19 September) witnessed the participation of 35 Heads of higher education institutions from ASEAN countries and India, including Vietnam National University, National University of Singapore, Arthashastra Institute (Bali), Indian Institute of Science (Bengaluru), and IIT Kanpur, among others.

A highlight of the conclave was the signing of the significant Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) by Nalanda University with three premier institutions, the University of Social Sciences and Humanities (Vietnam National University), the Indian Maritime University, and the Maulana Abul Kalam Azad Institute of Asian Studies (MAKAIS). The MoU ceremony, held at the International Centre of the University campus, sets a new direction for academic collaboration, research partnerships and knowledge exchange across Asia.

Speaking on the occasion, Professor Sachin Chaturvedi, Vice Chancellor of Nalanda University, emphasized, “Our priority is to build institutional ecosystems in times of super-specialization, enabling convergence to address complex challenges and solve issues of greater significance.”

He further extended heartfelt gratitude to the Ministry of External Affairs, Research and Information System for Developing Countries (RIS), The Energy and Resources Institute (TERI), ASEAN partners, and all participating institutions and forums for their invaluable cooperation and support.

The conclave hosted engaging sessions, thematic deliberations and cultural experiences, highlighting the spirit of collective action and strengthening ASEAN–India collaboration in higher education. Delegates also visited the ancient ruins of Nalanda, a UNESCO world heritage site, enjoyed Indian cuisines, experienced a live demonstration of Kalaripayattu, the traditional martial art from Kerala, and participated in a special session on Nalanda University’s research collaborations.

The event concluded with renewed commitments to advance knowledge partnerships, sustainability and cultural ties that resonate with the timeless legacy of Nalanda.