First University In India: Oldest University (Nalanda University), Role, Achievements, Courses, Admission Process, and Fee Structure

First University in India Overview

The First University of India, i.e., the renowned Nalanda University, was known to be an intellectual stronghold that served as a beacon of knowledge and enlightenment for centuries. It is located in the archives of history, tucked away in the lush landscape of ancient Bihar, India. The revered Nalanda University, considered the first university in India, was the breeding ground for generations of thinkers, philosophers, and scholars who enlightened the globe with their knowledge. The illustrious Gupta dynasty ruled India in the fifth century CE, which is when Nalanda University was founded. Its foundations are firmly planted in a strong devotion to the pursuit of knowledge, and it embraces a comprehensive educational philosophy that cuts across national boundaries. 

What is Nalanda University?

Nalanda, situated in ancient Magadha (now Bihar), eastern India, was a renowned Mahavihara Buddhist monastic university (the first university in India). According to historians, it was the first residential university and one of the most significant educational institutions in antiquity. During the fifth and sixth centuries CE, Nalanda, which thrived from 427 to 1197 CE, was crucial in establishing patronage of the arts and academia. Because of India's enormous cultural and intellectual achievements, this time is known as the "Golden Age of India" by academics.

First University in India Highlights

The following table shows the details of Nalanda University-

First University in India: Description of Nalanda University

The following table gives details about the first university in India-

Achievements of the First University In India: Nalanda University

In ancient India, Nalanda University (the first university in India) was a renowned center of study with many accomplishments that added to its stature and historical significance. Nalanda University has made some significant accomplishments, which are as follows-

Courses provided by First University in India: Nalanda University

Nalanda University (the first University in India), a historic institution, provided a broad range of programs encompassing many topics. The below table outlines some of the notable courses that Nalanda University may have given, based on the information that is currently available to us- 

Dissipation of  the First University in India: Nalanda University

Unfortunately, Nalanda University (The First University In India) declined and eventually faced destruction in the 12th century due to various historical factors, which included an invasion at the end of the 12th Century by Bakhityar Khilji, who demolished the monastery, Killed The monks, And Burned The Valuable Library. However, its legacy and achievements continue to be revered and remembered as a symbol of India's rich cultural and educational heritage.

Re-establishment of Nalanda University in 2010

Now that it has been restored, Nalanda University is recognized as a cutting-edge, international institution of higher education. In order to preserve the tradition of the former Nalanda institution (the First University in India), the Indian government and East Asian partners founded the new Nalanda University in 2010. The newly revived Nalanda University is committed to advancing multidisciplinary research and the study of Asian philosophy, history, and culture. In addition to providing a forum for collaboration and interaction among experts from around the world, its aim is to promote intellectual and cultural exchange among Asian nations.

Location of the re-established Nalanda University

The university is located close to the original location of the historic Nalanda University in Rajgir, Bihar. The Nalanda University Act 2010, which was approved by the Indian Parliament, governs how it is run. The campus was built to house contemporary academic facilities and foster an atmosphere that is favorable to cutting-edge research and education. Nalanda University has been designated as an “institution of national importance” (Act). This university places a special emphasis on this philosophy, which distinguishes it from all other universities in the area.

Aims of Nalanda University

The following are the aims of the First University in India-

1. The idea aims to restore the broken alliances and partnerships that formerly existed in Asia.
2. These deep historical connections are prevalent throughout Asian nations and can be seen in a variety of shared cultural traits.
3. In terms of both design and bearing, Nalanda University considers its Library to be the main focus of its master plan as the Old Nalanda University (i.e. the first university in India). 
4. It is also committed to creating an intellectual hub that will guarantee that teachers and students have access to excellent resources in a variety of convenient formats for their entire development. 
5. Koha integrated library management software has completely automated the Nalanda University Library.
6. Nalanda University hopes and strives to reach the pinnacle of the early Nalanda University, i.e. the oldest university in India and one of the oldest universities in the world, to reach its former days of being one of the most sought-after and prestigious universities in the world.

Role in the "Golden Age of India

The intellectual and cultural flowering of ancient India in the fifth and sixth centuries CE, referred to by historians as the "Golden Age of India," was significantly inspired by Nalanda.  The sharing of knowledge and ideas at Nalanda helped a number of fields advance as a whole.

First University of India Courses

1. MA in World Literature (EQUIVALENT to MA in English)
2. Master’s in Santana Hindu Studies
3. MBA in Sustainable Development and Management in the School of Management Studies
4. Master’s and Ph.D. in Historical Studies
5. Master’s and Ph.D. in Ecology and Environment Studies
6. Master’s and Ph.D. in Buddhist Studies, Philosophy, and Comparative Religion
7. Diploma and Certificate in Languages

MBA Fee Structure of the re-established Nalanda University (Indian Students)

The following table shows the MBA fee structure at the First University of India-

Fees for Master’s Programmes for the batch of 2023-2025 (Indian Students)

The following table shows the fee structure for Master's Programs at the First University of India-

Fee for Doctoral Program (Ph.D.) for Indian Students at Nalanda University

The following table shows the fee structure for the Doctoral program (Ph.D.) at the First University of India-

Admission Process of the First University of India

Master’s and Ph.D. Programs

The whole admissions application process is online, in keeping with the University's commitment to sustainability. The Statement of Purpose (SoP), self-introduction letter, and supporting papers must be sent along with the application form, which must be filled out completely.

Conclusion

The new Nalanda University strives to become a center for knowledge exchange on a global scale by forming alliances with esteemed organizations all over the world. It is not constrained by geographical boundaries. Because of this interconnection, its effects on the world are felt beyond national boundaries, spurring scientific advancement and societal change. The brand-new Nalanda University, just like the Nalanda University of Old i.e. the First University of India, invites us all to join in on this inspiring tale of rebirth and revitalization as it unfolds its chapters. It invites enquiring minds, truth-seekers, and change agents to take part in a fascinating trip where traditional knowledge meets cutting-edge research. Let's celebrate the knowledge-bearing phoenix that has emerged from the ashes to blaze the way to a better, more enlightened future.