Last year, our inaugural edition featured a dynamic India–Russia Track 2 Dialogue, which opened up vital conversations on diplomacy, defence, cybersecurity, and education. This year, we were honoured to host a bilateral dialogue between India and Taiwan, in collaboration with The Prospect Foundation, Taiwan. The shift in focus is timely and significant. Taiwan is emerging as a key partner in areas ranging from semiconductors and innovation to democratic cooperation and cultural exchange—and I strongly believe that academia must play a proactive role in strengthening this relationship.
Across two insightful days and five expert-led sessions, Vishwa Samvada 2025 brought together eminent scholars, diplomats, strategic experts, and university leaders from both countries. The discussions ranged from geopolitical realignments and cybersecurity to semiconductor technology, academic collaboration, and soft power diplomacy. These conversations reinforced my belief that universities like REVA must become bridges between nations.
One presentation on the progress of India–Taiwan semiconductor partnerships especially struck a chord with me. As someone who closely follows the intersection of education and innovation, I felt this was an area REVA should step into more meaningfully. Our Engineering Schools have semiconductor technology and advanced microelectronics as one of the subjects in their syllabus. Through focused research initiatives, student exchange programmes, and co-development of curriculum, I believe REVA and Taiwanese institutions can co-create impactful academic ecosystems in this vital field.
I also got a chance to interact with Dr. I-Chung Lai, President of The Prospect Foundation. His deep insights into the evolving contours of India–Taiwan relations, particularly in areas like digital transformation, renewable energy, and skill development, were thought-provoking. We spoke at length about how universities from both nations could collaborate through joint research projects, faculty and student exchanges, and innovation hubs focused on mutual priorities.
Beyond academic discourse, Vishwa Samvada 2025 celebrated the spirit of culture and connection. The evening cultural showcase was a delightful tapestry of Indian and Taiwanese traditions, ranging from classical dance performances by REVA students to Taiwanese folk dance and music. The joy and mutual respect in these moments reaffirmed that diplomacy doesn’t just happen through policy—but also through people, art, and shared experiences.
As I stood amid these conversations and celebrations, I felt a deep sense of pride. Events like Vishwa Samvada are more than annual dialogues—they are stepping stones in our journey to make REVA University a beacon of global knowledge exchange. I look forward to many more such engagements, where our students, faculty, and research centres help shape the future of international cooperation.
