As higher education institutions across South Asia expand their role in research, sustainability and policy engagement, academic collaboration is becoming increasingly important in addressing regional and global challenges. UNESCO Chairs have emerged as a key part of this effort, bringing together universities, researchers and institutions to encourage knowledge-sharing and interdisciplinary dialogue.
UNESCO Chairs Vital for Policy Discussions
UNESCO Chairs are vital to the organisation's global network and heavily inform policy-level discussions, stated Tim Curtis, Director of UNESCO’s Regional Office for South Asia, during a two-day Round Table hosted at Amrita Vishwa Vidyapeetham. The event gathered over 22 representatives, UNESCO Chairholders, and academic leaders from India, Nepal, Bangladesh, and Sri Lanka.
Aligning Research with UNESCO Priorities
Discussions centered on aligning regional research and community initiatives with UNESCO’s 2026–2027 priorities. Key themes included the triple planetary crisis (climate change, biodiversity loss, and pollution), digital transformation, ethical AI, gender equality, and youth engagement.
Distinguished attendees included Susan Vize (UNESCO Representative to Bangladesh) and Jaco du Toit (UNESCO Representative to Nepal). During the hybrid event, the delegation also met with the university’s Chancellor, Mata Amritanandamayi Devi.
Amrita Vishwa Vidyapeetham’s Unique UNESCO Chairs
Amrita Vishwa Vidyapeetham is the only university in India to host three UNESCO Chairs: Gender Equality and Women’s Empowerment (led by Dr. Bhavani Rao), Experiential Learning for Sustainable Innovation and Development (led by Dr. Maneesha V. Ramesh), and Assistive Technologies in Education (led by Dr. Prema Nedungadi). These chairs play a crucial role in fostering interdisciplinary research and community engagement across the region.
The round table underscored the importance of collaborative efforts in tackling pressing challenges such as climate change and digital transformation, while promoting gender equality and youth participation. The event served as a platform for sharing best practices and strengthening networks among South Asian academic institutions.
