TAKING A CLOSER LOOK
NIIT University launches a new forum to improve our understanding of Asia.
With the objective of sensitising the young generation about the rich and diverse legacy of Asia, NIIT University ( NU) has launched a unique initiative called the Asian Lens Forum. “As Asians, this forum looks at renewing a sense of identity within us. It seeks to provide a direction and a vision towards a better Asia,” explains Rajendra. S. Pawar, chairman, NIIT and founder, NIIT University. The Asian Lens Forum will act as a platform for faculty members as well as students of NU to undertake research about challenges, achievements and roles of Asian societies in the globalised world.
Explaining the need for such a forum, Pawar says that the history of colonisation in the continent resulted in “Asians having an understanding of themselves from the prism of western writers, historians and thinkers.” He adds that, “the Asian civilisation was severely damaged, if not completely beset by Western imperialism. This dominance extended to every arena whether it’s our economic, social or cultural life.”
While agreeing that in the new century, Asian countries are witnessing a major growth that allows them to stand head to head with the Western world, Pawar also says that our understanding of Asian societies is dominated by Western worldview. “Notwithstanding the significant development ( of Asia), there continues to be a major dependence on the Western lens for Asians to study their individual societies. This will prevent a true contextual understanding of Asian realities” says Pawar.
This exploratory exercise promotes the exchange of ideas and learning, laying the foundation for a platform that provides rich cultural, intellectual and scientific pickings for future generations of Asians and one from which even non-Asians can profit.