The 8th World Parliament of Science, Religion and Philosophy, jointly organized by MIT World Peace University (MIT-WPU) and MIT ADT University, Pune, brought together eminent leaders from academia, religion, and governance to deliberate on achieving world peace through the integration of science, religion, and philosophy.
The three-day event witnessed ten plenary sessions centred on the theme “Attainment of World Peace through the Amalgamation of Science, Religion, and Philosophy,” held against the backdrop of the ongoing Russia–Ukraine conflict. Discussions explored India’s scientific journey from the Vedic era to modern times, while emphasizing the urgent need for value-based universal education and the transformation of universities into spiritually oriented scientific innovation centres.
The valedictory session was graced by Shri Arif Mohammed Khan, Hon’ble Governor of Kerala and former Union Cabinet Minister for Energy & Civil Aviation, who served as the Chief Guest. Other distinguished attendees included Shri Bhagat Singh Koshyari, Hon’ble Governor of Maharashtra; Dr. Vijay P. Bhatkar, Padma Bhushan awardee and Chancellor, Nalanda University; Dr. Raghunath A. Mashelkar, Padma Vibhushan awardee and renowned scientist; Shri Dada Idate, Chairman, National Commission for Denotified, Nomadic and Semi-Nomadic Tribes; and Prof. Priyankar Upadhyaya, UNESCO Chair Professor, Banaras Hindu University and Global Fellow, Peace Research Institute Oslo (PRIO).
In his address, Shri Bhagat Singh Koshyari emphasized the importance of education that nurtures both intellect and spirit, stating:
“There is a need for academic institutions that not only impart scientific and technical knowledge but also shape young minds into spiritual beings. While we focus on artificial intelligence, the ideas of spiritual intelligence should not evade our minds.”
Shri Arif Mohammed Khan underlined India’s heritage as a knowledge hub, saying:
“India being a Vishwaguru is not a hollow dream but an established fact. Education is the true game-changer that can help us revive our past glory. Science and spirituality are not contradictory — they go hand in hand to guide life with both prosperity and purpose.”
Shri Rahul V. Karad, Managing Trustee and Executive President of MAEER’s MIT and Executive President of MIT-WPU, remarked:
“The world is facing turbulent times. Conflicts like these remind us of the need for value-based education that blends science with spirituality. World peace and harmony rest on the foundation of a Peace Curriculum, which will define the education of the future.”
Prof. Dr. Vishwanath D. Karad, Founder & Chief Patron of MAEER’s MIT and President, MIT-WPU, highlighted the synergy between science and spirituality, stating:
“Artha, Kama, and Moksha are the pillars of life. Every university must have spiritually oriented scientific laboratories to nurture a peaceful generation. Science without spirituality becomes a tool for destruction.”
The Parliament echoed a powerful global message of human unity, brotherhood, and peace, emphasizing the need for inter-religious dialogue and the unification of spiritual values to guide humanity. The event concluded with calls to promote value-based universal education, integration of faith and reason, and collaborative action for world peace.
The three-day conclave witnessed participation from religious leaders, Vice-Chancellors, and thought leaders from across India and the world.
