Greater Noida. A high-level delegation from Dongguk University, Republic of Korea, visited Gautam Buddha University (GBU) today and held an interaction with the senior authorities of the University to review the existing Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) and explore new avenues of academic and research collaboration, particularly in the field of Buddhist Studies and allied disciplines.
Speaking on the occasion, Prof. Soonil Hwang, Division of Buddhist Studies, Dongguk University, stated that the delegation was on a pilgrimage-cum-educational visit to India’s important Buddhist heritage sites and leading universities, and that Gautam Buddha University marked the culmination of this journey. He emphasized the long-standing academic association between Dongguk University and GBU, rooted in shared civilizational and spiritual values.
A 52-member delegation from Dongguk University visited the GBU campus and toured key facilities, including the Meditation Centre and the iconic Buddha Statue, symbolizing the deep cultural and spiritual connect between India and Korea.
Prof. Rana Pratap Singh, Vice Chancellor, Gautam Buddha University, discussed the modalities of the existing MoU and underscored the need to expand collaboration into additional academic fields, while further strengthening student and faculty exchange programmes.
Venerable Donkwan, Chairperson of the Board of Trustees of the Dongguk University Foundation, expressed his agreement to cooperate in planning the introduction of a Korean Language Programme at GBU. He also assured full support for student exchange initiatives and extended assistance in the establishment of a Buddhist Museum at the Meditation Centre of the University.
Both institutions have a strong history of collaboration as knowledge partners in international conferences, participation in academic events in India and abroad, and have played a significant role in the founding of the Asian Buddhist Association, aimed at promoting Asian Buddhist scholarship globally.
Future Action Plan
The review of the MoU highlighted the following priorities: Expansion of collaboration with other Schools of Studies, Enhanced knowledge-sharing in Buddhist Studies, Increased cooperation and exchange of faculty and students for research.
The programme was coordinated by Dr. Chintala Venkata Sivasai, Director (International Affairs), Gautam Buddha University, and Prof. Arvind Kumar Singh, ICCR Chair Professor (presently posted at Lumbini). Other participants from GBU included Dr. Priyadarsini Mitra, Dr. C.S. Paswan, Dr. Gyanaditya Shakya, Mr. Vikram Singh Yadav, and Dr. Imtiaz Qamar. The vote of thanks was delivered by Prof. Rajeev Varshney, Dean (Academics) and Dean, School of Buddhist Studies.
The interaction was held in the Board Room of the Vice Chancellor and was attended by senior faculty members of Gautam Buddha University, including Deans and Heads of relevant Schools and Departments.
