PUNE, India (27 Jan. 2026) – In a significant step toward supporting peace and development, the Rotary Peace Center at Symbiosis International University (SIU) was inaugurated on 26 January 2026.

A culmination of the ethos, vision, mission, and expertise of both Rotary International and Symbiosis, the center is situated on Symbiosis’ scenic 400+ acre Lavale campus in Pune. It offers a fully funded one year postgraduate diploma program in Peace and Development Studies. The program has been designed for mid-career professionals working in different sectors of peace and development either within Asia or Asian communities.

“In this interconnected world, peace can no longer be viewed as an abstract ideal; it must be cultivated through institutions that combine knowledge, ethical leadership, and action. Rotary believes that sustainable peace is built when education empowers individuals to serve beyond borders and think beyond divisions,” said Francesco Arezzo, Rotary International President (2025-26). “The establishment of the Rotary Peace Center at Symbiosis International University reflects Rotary’s commitment to nurturing leaders who understand and act with integrity towards a cause. Through this initiative, the center will contribute not only to regional peacebuilding in Asia but to a stronger global framework for shared responsibility,” he added.

For Dr. Vidya Yeravdekar, Principal Director of Symbiosis and the Pro Chancellor of Symbiosis International University, “The establishment of the Rotary Peace Center at Symbiosis International University aligns closely with the core values of Symbiosis and is especially meaningful as it coincides with our 55th anniversary. Founded by Prof. Dr. S. B. Mujumdar, based on the ideal of “Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam”, the mission of Symbiosis was to bring together students from across India and around the world to encourage international understanding and a spirit of brotherhood. Our visionary founder believed that providing quality education was the only way to promote international understanding.”

The Rotary Peace Center at SIU will welcome up to 40 Rotary Peace Fellows each year.

“With India’s rich diversity and complex social landscape, the Rotary Peace Center at Symbiosis International University will offer unique opportunities for cultivating leaders who can navigate conflict with empathy and innovation,” said Bharat S. Pandya, Trustee, The Rotary Foundation (2022-2026). “By collaborating with Symbiosis, we are creating a platform where emerging and experienced peacebuilders can gain the knowledge, skills, and networks needed to address local and global challenges. This center will help in nurturing a new generation of leaders in Asia, dedicated to strengthening dialogue, understanding, and sustainable peace,” he added.

Applications for Rotary’s one year postgraduate diploma program at SIU will be open from 1 February – 15 May 2026. Visit rotary.org/peace-fellowships to learn more about Rotary Peace Fellowship programs and how to apply.

“The Rotary Peace Center at SIU will cater to the greater Asia region, integrating an interdisciplinary approach with experiential learning. The one year postgraduate diploma program will be offered in a blended learning format to empower mid-level professionals working in different spheres of peace and development, to advance their engagement in sustainable and actionable outcomes for social change in Asia,” said Dr. Sulakshana Sen, Center Head, Rotary Peace Center at Symbiosis International University.

Rotary currently awards up to 170 fully funded fellowships for dedicated peace and development leaders from around the world to study at one of its eight peace center programs. Since 2002, Rotary Peace Centers have trained more than 1,800 individuals for careers in peacebuilding, and program alumni serve as leaders in governmental and non-governmental agencies, international organizations, and more.