HNLU Solidifies Global Footprint: Signs Historic Multilateral Innovation MoU at AUAP-WURI Impact Summit 2026

In a major step forward for Indian legal education on the global stage, Hidayatullah National Law University (HNLU), Raipur, has expanded its international footprint. The university signed a landmark multilateral Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on Global University Innovation and Cooperation.

The historic signing took place during the prestigious Association of Universities of Asia and the Pacific (AUAP) – World University Rankings for Innovation (WURI) Impact Summit 2026. The event was held at the iconic Iconsiam Convention Center in Bangkok, Thailand, on July 9 and 10, 2026.

Fostering a Global Network of Innovation

This multilateral agreement brings together 20 leading universities spanning South Asia, Southeast Asia, and the United Arab Emirates (UAE). It establishes a robust, long-term framework for cross-border cooperation in higher education, research, and sustainable development.

The two-day summit centered on the theme: “University Innovation in Partnership with Government: Policy, Mechanism, and Impact”. It served as an elite gathering for global university heads, policymakers, and academicians. Under Article 3 of the signed MoU, the participating universities have pledged to collaborate on:

• Joint research and innovation projects.

• International exchange programs for faculty, researchers, and students.

• The co-creation of new academic programs and case studies.

• Direct support for entrepreneurship, startup incubators, and local innovation ecosystems.

Showcasing HNLU’s “Hub and Spoke” Research Model

Representing HNLU in Bangkok, Vice-Chancellor Prof. (Dr.) V.C. Vivekanandan presented a comprehensive case study highlighting the university’s innovative ‘Research Hub and Spoke’ (R-HaS) model.

“HNLU is making impactful progress in showcasing and disseminating its research initiatives globally through meaningful engagements with regional and international university bodies,” remarked Prof. Vivekanandan.

The R-HaS model aims to bridge legal theory and real-world societal impact. It emphasizes interdisciplinary legal research, externally funded projects, and social responsibility—aligning perfectly with WURI’s core ranking criteria, which value real-world social impact over traditional, insular academic metrics.

While in Bangkok, Prof. Vivekanandan also held strategic discussions with AUAP Secretary General Prof. Dr. Anoop Swarup and Executive Secretary Dr. Supaporn Chuangchid to map out upcoming collaborative conferences and student exchange pathways.

Celebrating HNLU’s Brightest Minds and Moot Court Champions

HNLU’s push for global academic integration is mirrored by the exceptional achievements of its students in national and international arenas. The university continues to nurture top-tier legal talent that excels in competitive advocacy.

Kushika Kumari, Kashish Malhotra, Gurnish, and Anahita Panda (Philip C. Jessup Moot Champions 2026)

This elite team made institutional history by winning the 67th Philip C. Jessup International Law Moot Court Competition (India Qualifying Rounds). Competing against the country’s finest law schools at Jindal Global Law School, they claimed the championship and went on to represent India at the international rounds in Washington, D.C.

Devesh Mishra, Rashleen Kaur Saluja, and Asmi Chandrakar (9th Dastur Direct Tax Moot Champions 2026)

Demonstrating HNLU’s academic depth in complex commercial laws, this talented trio secured the championship title at the 9th Dastur National Direct Tax Moot Court Competition 2026, organized by the Government Law College, Mumbai.

• Rashleen Kaur Saluja was honored with the Best Speaker Award.

• Devesh Mishra secured the Second Best Speaker Award, showcasing the team’s absolute dominance in oral advocacy.

Looking to the Future

Through the newly signed global MoU and the continued success of its high-achieving students, HNLU Raipur is steadily bridging the gap between Indian legal education and global innovation networks. As the university implements collaborative exchange programs with its 20 new international partners, its students and faculty are set to benefit from unprecedented global exposure and research opportunities.

Written by Simran

Simran is currently working as a Senior Content Writer at Findmycollege , where she creates engaging and research-driven learning resources for students. She has completed her Graduation in Journalism from Delhi University. With 4 years of experience in the EdTech industry, she has previously contributed to leading platforms like Leverage Edu and Aakash. Her expertise lies in simplifying Engineering and Medical entrance exam content to guide aspirants in their preparation journey. Beyond writing, Simran enjoys sketching, watching movies, and finding creative inspiration in everyday life.

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