Pune: Indian and foreign students at Symbiosis International University celebrate global unity during G20 events
Pune, 18th March 2023: In a speech at the G20 University Connect series held on March 18th at Symbiosis International (Deemed University) Lavale campus, Harsh Vardhan Shringla, Chief Coordinator of G20, India, stated that “India is the fastest-growing economy in the world today.”
Shringla added that the G20’s motto exemplifies India’s foreign policies, which reach out to the whole world, and that the level of engagement has been excellent. He also noted that Prime Minister Modi’s approach to integration with other countries has been globally respected. Over the past few years, the Prime Minister has been invited to various conferences where he has conveyed India’s message of cooperation and collaboration, which has helped the country become a more resilient economy, emerging from the global crisis stronger than before.
Shringla emphasized that India, with its varied socio-economic, geo-political, and cultural experiences, is uniquely positioned to tackle wars, conflicts, and economic concerns, as the nation moves towards a multipolar world that will strive towards global growth and uphold the motto of ‘Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam’. He also emphasized the need for special emphasis on representation, whether it be of different countries or women-led development and leadership. G-20’s reach extends beyond India’s capital and covers the country from Kashmir to Kanyakumari and from Rann of Kutch to the valleys of Arunachal Pradesh.
Speaking at the function, Prof. (Dr.) S B Mujumdar, Chancellor of Symbiosis International (Deemed University), said that he believed in the principle of education being the best medium for internationalization. Dr. Mujumdar reiterated that internationalism is present in the DNA of Symbiosis, wherein Indian and foreign students live together to influence each other. Symbiosis has followed the motto of ‘Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam’ since its inception, which is in line with India’s G20 Presidency. He highlighted how Symbiosis is taking the lead in G20, hoping for a day when Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam and the spirit of G20 – ‘One Earth, One Family, and One Future’ – become a reality. As Chancellor of Symbiosis International (Deemed University), Dr. Mujumdar announced that Symbiosis would offer 20 scholarships not only to students but also to scholars from the 20 countries.
Dr. Vidya Yeravdekar, Pro-Chancellor of Symbiosis International (Deemed University), stated that India’s G20 Presidency is a proud moment for India, but also for Symbiosis International (Deemed University) (SIU). The motto for G20, “Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam,” is also the motto for SIU, making the moment even more special. Numerous G20 events have helped sensitize students, particularly under Y20, and raise awareness of the importance of G20 across India. The University has hosted several G20 discussions, including the G20 Festival of Thinkers, Y20 Consultation Pune, and the G20 University Connect. The youth are becoming active participants in different initiatives and resolutions, whether in education, peace, or active participation in conferences. Symbiosis as an institution is the perfect blend of international students in one place, which was well-represented during the Flag Felicitation Ceremony, where students from various countries presented their home nation’s flags. Dr. Rajani Gupte presented the flag of Symbiosis International University, and Dr. Mujumdar presented the UN flag to the Chief Guest Harsh Vardhan Shringla.
