From the desk of
"A deep desire to help foreign, especially Afro-Asian students studying in Pune, together with inspiration from Rabindranath Tagore's 'Vishwa Bharati' and Sane Guruji's idea of 'Antar Bharati', led me to create Symbiosis. Established on 26th January, 1971, with the motto of 'Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam,' meaning the 'world is one family, the ultimate objective was to promote international understanding through education, while fostering lifelong friendships. The Rotary Peace Center at Symbiosis International University will actively work to further the Symbiosis ideal of international understanding and peace."
Prof. (Dr.) S. B. Mujumdar
Founder and President, Symbiosis,
Chancellor, SIU
"Symbiosis was established by Prof. Dr. S. B. Mujumdar, our visionary founder and the Chancellor of Symbiosis International University with a mission to bring together students from across India and from around the world to encourage international understanding and a spirit of brotherhood. Dr. Mujumdar gave an apt motto - 'Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam' meaning the world is one family! With this as its mission statement Symbiosis has been tirelessly working since the last 55 years to envision this mission. I am delighted that Rotary has chosen Symbiosis International University as the site for a Rotary Peace Center. This initiative aligns well with our core values and the long-standing vision of Symbiosis."
Dr. Vidya Yeravdekar
Principal Director, Symbiosis,
Pro Chancellor, SIU
"Collaborations at the local, national, and international levels have always been a defining strength of Symbiosis International (Deemed University). Whether through research partnerships, joint academic programmes with leading universities, or our work with government bodies, NGOs, community organizations, and multinational corporations, Symbiosis has consistently sought to build meaningful alliances that enrich learning and foster inclusive, knowledge-driven, and sustainable progress. Our collaboration with Rotary further reinforces this commitment, enabling new opportunities for scholarship, peace-building, and human development. Together, we strive to create impactful learning ecosystems that shape a more equitable and peaceful future."
Dr. Ramakrishnan Raman
Vice Chancellor, SIU
"Established as an individual teacher's compassionate response to the plight of Afro-Asian students in Pune, Symbiosis is the only university in India to have been established on the principle of internationalization of education. With students from over 85 countries, the university has been focused on nurturing global citizens through quality education and cross-cultural sensitisation, and empowering thought provoking leaders… essentials for creating a harmonious and peaceful world. The Rotary Peace Center with its unique academic programme, joins the Symbiosis family in extending this vision."
Dr. Anita Patankar
Director, Symbiosis Centre for International Education,
Executive Director, SIU, Dubai
"The Rotary Peace Center at Symbiosis International University brings together the ethos, vision, mission, and expertise of both Symbiosis and Rotary in creating a center that will cater to the greater Asia region. Integrating an interdisciplinary approach with experiential learning, the one-year post-graduate diploma program will be offered in a blended learning format. It has been designed to empower mid-level professionals working in different spheres of peace and development, to advance their engagement in sustainable and actionable outcomes for social change."
Dr. Sulakshana Sen
Center Head,
Rotary Peace Center at Symbiosis International University
