AMRITSAR, June 14 — Guru Nanak Dev University (GNDU) is stepping onto the global academic stage with a slate of international collaborations and new programmes aimed at deepening research into Guru Nanak’s teachings and preparing students for future-ready careers.
Vice-Chancellor Prof Karamjeet Singh, on returning from a multi-nation tour, announced the establishment of a Chair of Guru Nanak Dev Sikh Studies on campus. Funded through an endowment of over ₹3 crore — primarily contributed by Punjabi NRIs — the Chair will focus on exploring Guru Nanak’s spiritual and philosophical legacy.
“This initiative not only reinforces our cultural and spiritual foundations but also elevates GNDU’s position as a global hub for Sikh scholarship,” Singh said.
As part of his overseas engagements, Singh signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with Samarkand State University in Uzbekistan to launch academic and cultural collaborations commemorating Guru Nanak Dev. In Canada, the university initiated talks with leading institutions in British Columbia for joint research, faculty exchange and innovative programmes. The visit to the United States helped shape the framework for the Sikh Studies Chair and potential student scholarship schemes.
“This visit has marked a significant step toward positioning GNDU as a global leader in integrated and future-ready education,” the VC said, reiterating the university’s “student-first” commitment.
Addressing India’s rising graduate unemployment — with only 10 lakh out of 30 lakh graduates annually securing jobs — Singh said GNDU is introducing entrepreneurship training to help students launch their own ventures. “Our goal is to turn job seekers into job creators,” he said.
GNDU has also rolled out new courses in artificial intelligence, robotics, environmental science, journalism, design, and business analytics, preparing students for careers in emerging sectors.
In a symbolic gesture aligned with Guru Nanak’s philosophy, the university plans to redesign its Fountain Chowk and create a rose garden in the campus courtyard. “These spaces will reflect serenity, mindfulness and the inclusive vision of Guru Nanak,” Singh added.
