Taqi Hasnain/Tahalka Today Team
Riyadh, September 8, 2026:
The spirit of Lucknow’s adab, tehzeeb and tameez has travelled far beyond India, finding a new platform in the heart of Saudi Arabia. Integral University, Lucknow, has strengthened its international presence with the formal inauguration of its Alumni Chapter–Saudi Arabia in Riyadh.
The chapter was inaugurated by India’s Minister of State for External Affairs, Shri Kirti Vardhan Singh, at a ceremony held at the Four Seasons Hotel, Riyadh, in the presence of Integral University alumni from across the Kingdom.
The event marked more than the opening of an alumni platform. It represented a new bridge connecting Indian education, global Indian professionals, industry and the next generation of talent.
Addressing the gathering as Chief Guest, Shri Kirti Vardhan Singh highlighted the potential of the new chapter to serve as a bridge between academia and industry. He encouraged Indian professionals and alumni in Saudi Arabia to build partnerships that can strengthen the skills, employability and global readiness of India’s youth.
He also underlined the important role played by Indians who have made Saudi Arabia their second home. Carrying with them the values and learning received from their alma mater, such professionals can contribute significantly to strengthening people-to-people ties between India and Saudi Arabia.
Integral University’s Global Journey
The Riyadh chapter adds another significant dimension to Integral University’s growing alumni network and international outreach.
Under the leadership of Chancellor Wasim Akhtar, the university continues to project its emphasis on education, knowledge, skills and social responsibility. The institution’s journey reflects the idea that knowledge knows no borders—and education becomes more meaningful when it creates opportunities for society and future generations.
The initiative also comes at a time when India is increasingly strengthening its global educational, professional and economic connections. The wider focus of the Narendra Modi government and the Uttar Pradesh government led by Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath on skills, education and global opportunities provides an important backdrop to such initiatives.
Lucknow’s Tehzeeb Meets Saudi Arabia
For Lucknow, Integral University’s presence in Riyadh carries a special significance. Lucknow has long been associated with adab, tehzeeb, refinement and a culture of learning. The university’s alumni chapter now provides an opportunity for that spirit to connect with Indian professionals living and working in Saudi Arabia.
Founder & Chancellor Prof. S. W. Akhtar conveyed his best wishes through a video message and encouraged alumni to use the knowledge and values gained from their alma mater for the betterment of society.
The ceremony was attended by H.E. Shri Vipul, Ambassador of India to Saudi Arabia, Pro Chancellor Mr. Syed Adnan Akhtar, and alumni representing different parts of the Kingdom.
A New Chapter Beyond Borders
The Saudi Arabia Alumni Chapter is expected to create opportunities for stronger connections in education, industry, professional networking, skill development, employment and social initiatives.
From the lanes of Lucknow to the skyline of Riyadh, Integral University’s latest initiative carries a simple but powerful message:
When knowledge travels with values, borders become bridges.
The Riyadh chapter is therefore not merely a new name in the university’s alumni network—it is a new chapter in the story of Indian education, global Indian talent and Lucknow’s timeless culture of adab and knowledge.
