AMRITSAR: Dr Thierry Mathou, Ambassador of France to India, embarked on a notable visit to Guru Nanak Dev University with the purpose of reinforcing academic collaboration between India and France.
Ambassador Mathou was received warmly by Vice Chancellor Prof. Karamjeet Singh and the university’s leadership, including Dean of Academic Affairs Prof. Palwinder Singh, Registrar Prof. K.S. Chahal, Prof Preet Mohinder Singh Bedi, Director, Global Ranking & Collaboration Cell. Ambassador Mathou was honored with a ceremonial guard of honor, reflecting the university's commitment to international academic partnership. On this occasion, Dr. H.S. Saini, Dean Student’s Welfare, Dr. Balwinder Singh, Coordinator Golden Jubilee Centre for Entrepreneurship and Innovation, Dr. Vanda Bhalla, Director Research and other faculty members were present.
The visit featured a variety of engaging activities, including detailed discussions aimed at exploring potential areas for collaboration between Guru Nanak Dev University and French institutions. During the meeting with various Deans of faculties, the Ambassador underscored the importance of academic exchanges, research collaboration, and student mobility as vital components in enhancing Indo-French relations.
He expressed optimism about the future of educational partnerships, reiterating France’s commitment to fostering an environment conducive to knowledge-sharing. "Education is a universal transformative tool, and through collaborative efforts, we can empower our students to excel on a global platform. The Embassy of France, through the French Institute in India, and the network of Alliances françaises and CampusFrance offices is working towards welcoming 30, 000 Indian students in France by 2030 - an ambitious goal set by President Emmanuel Macron, " said Ambassador Mathou. His remarks highlighted the crucial role universities play in shaping future leaders and innovators who can tackle pressing global challenges through cooperative efforts.
As part of the visit, the Ambassador participated in a felicitation ceremony, recognizing faculty members and students who have made significant contributions to research and academic excellence. Ambassador Mathou also appreciated the efforts of University’s Global Ranking and collaboration Cell to coordinate this visit in a brilliant manner.
In a statement, Vice Chancellor Prof. Karamjeet Singh remarked, “We are immensely honored to welcome Ambassador Mathou to our university. His visit is a testament to our commitment to forging meaningful partnerships with esteemed educational institutions globally. By collaborating with our French counterparts, we aim to enhance the academic experiences of our students and faculty, and contribute to the knowledge economy of both nations.”
Prof. Karamjeet Singh said that with India and France both recognizing the value of education as a catalyst for growth and innovation, this visit marks a pivotal moment in enhancing collaboration between GNDU and French educational institutions. The outcomes of this engagement are expected to pave the way for future partnerships that will promote academic research, cultural exchange, and scholarly development.
This event not only celebrated individual achievements but also reinforced the spirit of teamwork and collaboration that defines GNDU’s academic community under leadership of Vice Chancellor Prof. Karamjeet Singh. Furthermore, Ambassador Mathou undertook a comprehensive tour of the university campus with Vice Chancellor and others which showcased GNDU's state-of-the-art facilities, research laboratories, and academic resources. Through this tour, the Ambassador gained insights into the university's commitment to promoting quality education and research, as well as its campus life. This visit is part of a broader diplomatic initiative aimed at strengthening ties between India and France in various sectors, particularly education.
Dr. Bedi, Director, said, " University’s Global Ranking and collaboration Cell is working on the vision of our Vice Chancellor, which is Internationalization of Education through tie-ups with top ranked foreign universities so that students can get global exposure." According to Dr. Preet Mohinder Singh Bedi Director, Global Ranking & Collaboration Cell, it is a new milestone for Guru Nanak Dev University, as we host His Excellency Thierry Mathou on Campus for a significant global agenda in Higher education. Bilateral relations between India and France are of great significance for continuous growth of both countries.
Prof. Bedi said that the visit by Ambassador Thierry Mathou to Guru Nanak Dev University signals a proactive approach in building a strong and enduring relationship between India and France. By fostering academic ties, both nations can work together toward a shared vision of educational excellence and mutual growth.