- VGRC 2026 at Marwadi University Signals Saurashtra’s Academic-Ascent Moment
₹1,000 Crore MoU Proposal to Transform Higher Education Infrastructure in Gujarat
Global Investors, Governments and Institutions to Converge Under ‘Vocal for Local’ Theme
Innovation, Skill Development and Viksit Bharat@2047 at the Core of the Conference Vision
NE BUSINESS BUREAU
AHMEDABAD, JAN 5
Strengthening Gujarat’s ambition to emerge as a global knowledge and innovation hub, Marwadi University is set to host the prestigious Vibrant Gujarat Regional Conference (VGRC) for the Kutch–Saurashtra region on January 11 and 12, 2026. Organised by the Government of Gujarat, the conference marks a significant milestone in the state’s higher education and investment landscape, with Marwadi University positioning itself at the centre of regional and global academic collaboration.
In a major forward-looking move, the university has submitted a proposal to the Gujarat government’s Education Department for a ₹1,000 crore investment MoU aimed at transforming education infrastructure in the state. The proposed investment envisions the creation of advanced academic blocks equipped with cutting-edge laboratories, modern sports infrastructure, next-generation hostels, and a dedicated 10,000 sq ft centre for innovation and start-ups. A separate academic block focused on continuing education for working professionals and entrepreneurs is also part of the roadmap, underscoring the university’s intent to align education with evolving industry needs.
The VGRC 2026 is being organised under the theme “Vocal for Local” and will span four key zones of Gujarat — North, Saurashtra-Kutch, South and Central Gujarat. The conference is expected to attract strong international participation from countries such as Japan, South Korea, Vietnam and the Netherlands, alongside global institutions and organisations including JETRO, ICBC, USISPF, the World Bank and the Russian Federation.
Expressing pride in hosting the regional conference, Dhruv Marwadi, Trustee, Marwadi University, said, “It is a matter of great pride for us to host the Vibrant Gujarat Regional Conferences for the Kutch–Saurashtra region. As an institution rooted in innovation, industry engagement, and skill development, we are proud to provide a platform that fosters collaborations between local enterprises, start-ups, government bodies, and global investors. We aim to continuously co-create Gujarat’s growth story and contribute to the vision of Viksit Bharat.”
R.B. Jadeja, Provost, Marwadi University, highlighted the broader national significance of the initiative, stating, “We are proud to contribute to Gujarat’s progress and the larger vision of Viksit Bharat@2047. VGRC embodies the true spirit of connecting local potential with global opportunities. Hosting this event is our commitment to building these bridges and contributing to Gujarat’s emergence as a globally competitive and inclusive growth engine.”
Over the two-day conference, stakeholders will participate in high-impact seminars, exhibitions, MoU signings, B2B and B2G meetings, buyer–seller meets and vendor development programmes. The thematic focus will span emerging and high-growth areas such as artificial intelligence, digital marketing, sustainability, circular economy, auto and precision engineering, among others.
Inspired by the legacy of 10 successful Vibrant Gujarat Global Summits, the VGRC at Marwadi University is expected to give renewed momentum to Gujarat’s investment ecosystem. With a strong emphasis on MSMEs, start-ups, skill development, tourism, culture and food processing, the conference aligns seamlessly with the long-term visions of Viksit Gujarat@2047 and Viksit Bharat@2047, reinforcing Gujarat’s standing as a future-ready global investment and education destination.
