Center for Brain, Mind and Consciousness

Prof. Dr. Vishwanath Karad

Prof. Dr. Vishwanath Karad is a renowned educationist, visionary founder of the MAEER's MIT Group and MIT-WPU, and creator of the World Peace Dome. A UNESCO Chair holder for Human Rights, Democracy, and Peace, Prof. Karad is celebrated for championing value-based universal education and integrating science with spirituality to advance global harmony. Born in a humble farming family in Rameshwar, Maharashtra, he devoted his life to transformative education, cultural preservation, and social upliftment. His academic roots as a professor at COEP and his deep study of subjects like thermodynamics and quantum mechanics shaped his belief that spiritual wisdom and scientific inquiry are complementary paths to universal truth. Drawing inspiration from saints like Shri Dnyaneshwara and Sri Tukaram, Prof. Karad highlights parallels between ancient philosophical insights and the discoveries of modern physicists. His lifelong work forms the foundation of WPU GŌA's mission to nurture enlightened, responsible, and peace-driven global citizens.

Students sitting together on the campus lawn in conversation

Rationale

To carry forward the legacy of Prof. Vishwanath Karad, this centre will serve the dual purposes of:

Pursuit of academic research and study of Brain, Mind and Consciousness at a graduate and post graduate level.
Run a “Self-Actualisation Programme” for all students to support holistic emotional, spiritual, and psychological development alongside academic excellence.

Aims and Objectives

To conduct graduate degree programmes for undergraduate and postgraduate students in Brain, Mind and Consciousness studies.
To provide instructional programmes for 2 credits per academic year, mandatory for all students under the ‘Self Actualization Programme’.

Activities

Research
Training of Staff and Students
Mentoring students
Counselling

Students reading and studying together on the campus steps

Students collaborating around a table with a colour palette during a creative workshop

Mandate

Deliver education rooted in the rich traditions and legacy of Indian culture, with equal emphasis on values, discipline, compassion, tolerance, and holistic personality development alongside academic excellence.
Provide a platform for research in the domains of mind, consciousness, and neuroscience, informed by insights from Indian Knowledge Systems.

Partnerships and Alliances

Collaborate with industry and corporate partners to deliver workshops and seminars on team building and soft skills as part of organisational HR initiatives.
Maintain liaison with government programmes and policy bodies to promote holistic student development across all levels.

Industry and corporate partners collaborating around a laptop during a team workshop

Students collaborating around a table while planning during a workshop

Operational Plan

Organise guest lectures by eminent researchers and scholars in the domains of consciousness studies and cognitive science.
Conduct annual conferences on themes related to cognitive science, mind, and consciousness.
Offer fellowships and internships for international university students.
Provide scholarships to deserving students to pursue research at leading higher education institutions.

Outcomes and Impact

The centre aims to develop well-rounded individuals and responsible citizens who will serve as ambassadors of the institution, while also becoming specialists in their chosen fields of study.
The centre also seeks to provide the perfect platform that fosters the integration of science and spirituality, in its endeavour to pursue research in the largely unexplored domains of consciousness and the chemistry of the mind.