In a significant step towards fostering global academic collaboration, Maj Gen Deepak Mehra, Kirti Chakra, AVSM, VSM (Retd.), Director of the School of Internal Security and SMART Policing, represented the Rashtriya Raksha University at the BRICS Universities Rectors Forum held on October 17-18, 2024. The prestigious forum took place at Lomonosov Moscow State University, an iconic institution renowned as one of the 'Seven Sisters' of Russian architecture, further enhancing the global academic prestige of the event.

The BRICS Universities Rectors Forum brought together rectors and academic leaders from the top universities of BRICS member countries—Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa. This year marked a significant expansion of the BRICS platform with the inclusion of new member states Iran, Egypt, Saudi Arabia, Ethiopia and the United Arab Emirates. The event aimed to deepen the educational and scientific exchanges among these rapidly growing economies, laying the groundwork for future collaborations that transcend national boundaries.

A Vision of Academic and Strategic Partnership

In his opening remarks, Maj Gen Mehra conveyed his deepest gratitude on behalf of RRU and its Vice Chancellor, Prof. (Dr.) Bimal N Patel, to the leadership of Lomonosov Moscow State University and the BRICS Rectors Forum for extending an invitation to RRU, an Institution of National Importance in India. He noted the symbolic importance of the event, which coincides with the 16th BRICS Summit held in Kazan, Russia, from October 22-24, 2024.

Maj Gen Mehra highlighted that the BRICS Universities Rectors Forum, the first of its kind, represents a new era of multilateral cooperation. "This forum not only symbolizes the close bond that our nations share but also underscores the crucial role of education in shaping the future of our societies, economies, and the world at large," he said. He welcomed the addition of the new BRICS members, expressing confidence that their participation would further enrich the academic and cultural diversity of the BRICS Network University.

BRICS: A Growing Global Influence

The BRICS nations collectively account for an impressive 42% of the world’s population, 35% of global GDP, and 40% of global trade. Maj Gen Mehra emphasized the bloc’s rapidly growing influence, especially as BRICS nations continue to advocate for reforms in global governance institutions. He pointed out that by 2030, the International Monetary Fund (IMF) predicts BRICS countries will contribute over 50% of global GDP, underscoring the economic and strategic importance of the alliance.

Maj Gen Mehra stressed that this influence goes beyond economics, stating that BRICS is uniquely positioned to lead a cultural and intellectual renaissance in the Global South. "BRICS stands out as a powerful voice advocating for a more equitable global governance framework—one that ensures developing nations have a seat at the table when addressing critical global issues," he added.

RRU’s Commitment to India’s National Vision 

As a representative of RRU India, Maj Gen Mehra reiterated RRU’s alignment with the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020, which aims to make the Indian education system more inclusive and globally competitive. He emphasized RRU’s role in contributing to India's vision of a peaceful, prosperous, and stable world order, grounded in the principles of  multilateralism  and mutual respect.

Highlighting RRU’s diverse academic programs, Maj Gen Mehra detailed how the university’s eleven specialized schools cater to both national security and broader societal needs. Through a combination of cutting-edge research, training, and collaboration with international security experts, RRU is preparing a new generation of leaders equipped to address the challenges facing developing economies.

Building Bridges Across BRICS

Maj Gen Mehra also outlined his vision for deepening academic collaboration among BRICS universities. He called for the establishment of robust student and faculty exchange programs, joint research initiatives, and cooperative efforts to achieve the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). He noted that Gujarat’s International Fin-Tech City (GIFT) offers a unique platform for BRICS universities to collaborate on innovative projects and build campuses in India, further strengthening the knowledge corridor between BRICS nations.

"At Rastriya Raksha University, we are envisioning a deeper academic collaboration within BRICS nations. These collaborations, founded on the bedrock of mutual respect and shared learning, will help us address global challenges and propel BRICS members from the status of developing to developed nations," Maj Gen Mehra remarked.

The Future of BRICS Educational Collaboration 

In closing, Maj Gen Mehra expressed his optimism that the BRICS Universities Rectors Forum would be a catalyst for a new era of academic exchanges, fostering innovation and cross-cultural understanding. He invited all participants to visit RRU’s campus in Gandhinagar, Gujarat, and explore avenues for collaboration.

"This forum is just the beginning of a new era of collaboration between the best universities of BRICS nations in education and research. Together, we can create a future that is inclusive, sustainable, and secure for all," he said.

AP/GP/JD

 

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