O.P. Jindal Global University (JGU) has announced the launch of the World University Leaders Forum (WULF) at the World Economic Forum in Davos, marking the first higher education leadership platform of its kind convened at the Forum.

The initiative brings together university leaders and academics from across regions to exchange perspectives, share practices and collaborate on global challenges affecting higher education and society. The Forum seeks to strengthen academic linkages between the Global North and Global South and promote joint efforts aligned with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals.

WULF is hosted and moderated by Professor C. Raj Kumar, Vice-Chancellor of JGU. The inaugural panel features Professor Marvin Krislov, President of Pace University, USA; Professor Sherine Farouk, Assistant Chancellor for Global Partnerships and Impact at Abu Dhabi University, UAE; Professor Joanna Newman, Provost and Deputy Vice-Chancellor of SOAS University of London, UK; Professor Masa Inakage, Dean at Keio University Graduate School of Media Design, Japan; and Dr Ashwin Fernandes, Executive Director of QS Quacquarelli Symonds, UK.

The opening discussion focuses on the role of universities in advancing the Sustainable Development Goals and shaping future-ready education systems. The themes align with the World Economic Forum’s priorities, including cooperation in a contested world, investment in people, responsible innovation and sustainable growth.

Speaking at the launch, Professor C. Raj Kumar said the Forum institutionalises JGU’s global engagement and provides a platform for universities to work collectively on policy, partnerships and practice. He noted that JGU’s international collaborations span more than 600 partnerships across over 80 countries.

The Forum aims to promote dialogue on higher education policy and practice, encourage collaborative initiatives, and build a global community of university leaders committed to innovation, equity and sustainability.

WULF builds on JGU’s two decades of international engagement through conferences, summits and global academic convenings, and represents the next phase of its efforts to support cross-border academic cooperation and public impact.

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