PHAGWARA: The North Zone Vice Chancellors’ Meet 2025–26 of the Association of Indian Universities (AIU) convened more than 100 Vice Chancellors and senior academic leaders from across North India for a two-day deliberation on the theme “Integrating Traditional Wisdom in Curriculum and Research.” The conference inaugurated by Punjab Governor Gulab Chand Kataria, placed a strong emphasis on embedding India’s ancient knowledge systems into contemporary higher education through curriculum innovation, interdisciplinary research, and technology-enabled capacity building. Detailed discussions across technical sessions, business meetings, and interactions with apex bodies are set to culminate in a comprehensive Commitment Statement and the formation of collaborative groups to drive future initiatives.
During the inaugural session, Punjab Governor Gulab Chand Kataria highlighted India’s historic role as a global hub of knowledge, noting that traditional systems such as Ayurveda and early scientific thought continue to hold solutions for modern challenges. He emphasized that education must foster character, values, and inclusivity so that financial constraints do not hinder deserving students. He also acknowledged the rapid rise of the host institution, noting that LPU’s growth reflects strong leadership and a consistent pursuit of excellence.
LPU Founder Chancellor MP Ashok Kumar Mittal described the conclave as a convergence of collective academic wisdom that will guide the evolution of an education system that is globally competitive yet distinctly Indian. AIU President and CSJM University Vice Chancellor Vinay Kumar Pathak stressed the need for technological self-reliance, calling for a national shift from “Made in India” to “Made by India” through stronger academic–industry–technology integration.
The conference was attended by AIU Secretary General Pankaj Mittal, LPU Pro-Chancellor Rashmi Mittal, LPU Vice Chancellor Jaspal Singh Sandhu, LPU Pro Vice Chancellor Loviraj Gupta, and numerous Vice Chancellors, faculty members, and student representatives.