The External Affairs Minister has announced that George Yeo, a former foreign minister from Singapore will be the new chancellor of Nalanda University. Yeo is currently serving as a member in the governing board of the prestigious university. Yeo was conferred the Padma Bhushan – the third highest civilian award – in 2012. He played a major role in the setting up of the university from the beginning.

Tidbits

• The ancient Nalanda University was functioned from 413 AD to 1193 AD.
• It was renowned internationally as a centre of learning, and attracted research scholars from all over the world.
• The University was destroyed in the 12th century by an invading Turkish army.
• Dr APJ Abdul Kalam gave the idea to revive Nalanda University.
• It was approved by an Act of Parliament in 2010.
• In September 2014, 15 students were selected from over 1,000 applicants.