PRESS RELEASE
Date: April 29, 2026
Mumbai, India & Flower Mound, Texas, USA
In a landmark initiative aimed at revitalizing research, innovation, and academic excellence in Punjab, Guru Nanak Global Foundation (GNGF) has announced the establishment of 11 Centers of Excellence (CoEs) across the state, in strategic partnership with leading universities and colleges.
This initiative, titled “Re-Building Punjab for Research & Innovation,” is designed to create world-class academic and research ecosystems that foster innovation, sustainability, cultural preservation, and global competitiveness.
Program Highlights
- Investment Commitment: GNGF will invest INR 1 Crore per Center of Excellence to develop advanced labs, research infrastructure, and program capabilities.
- Selective Partnership Model: Only one university/college per CoE will be selected through a merit-based evaluation process.
- Focus: Each CoE will serve as a specialized hub aligned with global challenges, interdisciplinary learning, and industry relevance.
Centers of Excellence (CoEs) & Mission Areas
- HOPE – Harmony of People Everywhere
Promoting peacebuilding, interfaith dialogue, and global harmony. - SHINE – Sikh History & Interfaith Narratives Excellence
Preserving Sikh heritage and fostering interfaith understanding through research and storytelling. - RISE – Research Innovation & Sustainability Engine
Driving sustainability innovation, climate solutions, and entrepreneurial research. - LEAP – Langar Earth Agroecology Program
Advancing sustainable agriculture, soil health, and food security systems. - TRIO – Three Realms Integration Office (Pavan, Pani, Dharati)
Focusing on environmental balance across air, water, and land ecosystems. - ALAAP – Academy of Living Arts, Aesthetics & Performance
Revitalizing performing arts, culture, and creative expression. - CURE – Community United for Restorative Equity & Wellness
Promoting public health, mental wellness, and community resilience. - VIRAAS – Vitality Inspired Resilience Athletic Academy Spirit
Encouraging sports excellence, physical fitness, and youth development. - INSAF – Institute of Nyaya Seva Administration & Fairness
Advancing justice, governance, ethics, and public administration. - ADVAIT – Advanced Dynamics Vision Atomic Interaction Technology
Driving deep-tech innovation, including semiconductors, materials science, and advanced systems. - GYAAN – Global Yield Artificial Advanced Networks
Focusing on AI, data science, digital ecosystems, and global knowledge networks.
Call for Applications
GNGF invites universities and colleges across Punjab to apply to host a Center of Excellence.
Application Deadline: June 30, 2026
Submit to Mr. Baljit Singh, Chairman & Chancellor, GNDGU at bsingh@gndgu.com
Selection & Implementation Timeline
- Application Submission Deadline: June 30, 2026
- Evaluation of Applications: By September 30, 2026
- Award & Strategic Planning: By December 30, 2026
- Deployment & Launch of CoEs: 2027
Application Requirements
Interested institutions must submit a comprehensive proposal including:
- Institutional profile and accreditation status (NAAC/NIRF/other)
- Demonstrated expertise aligned with the selected CoE theme
- Existing infrastructure and readiness for CoE deployment
- Faculty strength and research capabilities
- Proposed implementation of roadmap and timelines
- Industry partnerships and collaboration potential
- Sustainability and long-term operational plan
- Commitment to interdisciplinary and innovation-driven education
Guidelines for Applicants
- Each university/college may apply for only one (1) Center of Excellence
- Applications must clearly demonstrate domain expertise and institutional readiness
- Preference will be given to institutions with strong research orientation and industry linkage
- Selected institutions must commit to co-developing and sustaining the CoE in partnership with GNGF
Leadership Perspective
Baljit Singh, Chairman & Chancellor, Guru Nanak Global Foundation, stated:
“Punjab has always been a land of resilience, knowledge, and innovation. Through this initiative, we aim to reimagine its future by building world-class Centers of Excellence that not only strengthen academic institutions but also create real impact on society, economy, and the environment. We invite universities and colleges to join us in this transformative journey to position Punjab as a global hub for research and innovation.”
Vision Forward
This initiative reflects GNGF’s long-term vision of building a globally connected, innovation-driven academic ecosystem, aligned with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and rooted in the values of sustainability, equity, and collective progress.
Contact
Media & Communications
Navjot Kaur
Media & HR Head
Email: press@gndgu.com
Mobile: +91-9702000022
Partnerships & Collaboration
Baljit Singh
Chairman & Chancellor
Email: bsingh@gndgu.com
Mobile: +1-972-800-6305
About Guru Nanak Dev Global University
GNDGU is a pioneering, values-driven global university rooted in the universal teachings of Guru Nanak Dev Ji, dedicated to transforming students into enlightened leaders through inspired learning, holistic development, and full alignment with all 17 UNESCO Sustainable Development Goals.
Vision:
To transform students into global leaders through the power of inspired learning and self-development for positive social impact.
Mission:
Our mission is to deliver a world-class education that fosters excellence in science, technology, and the liberal arts, with a sharp focus on application-oriented research and results-driven innovation for the holistic development of students.
- To build characters of unshakeable integrity who stand fearlessly for Truth, guided by the eternal teachings of Guru Nanak Dev Ji and the principles of compassion, justice and chardi kala.
- To develop globally relevant, future-ready skills through inspired, interdisciplinary, application-oriented learning fully aligned with all 17 UNESCO Sustainable Development Goals.
- To create a vibrant, seva-driven ecosystem that guarantees 100% employability, empowering every graduate to secure meaningful careers, drive ethical innovation, and contribute selflessly to sustainable and equitable societies worldwide.
- Make world-class 4-year degree programs accessible at an unprecedented total cost of ₹1 lakh (approx. USD 1,200) in the United States.
Our Center of Excellence
