BRICS Network University Expands Thematic Cooperation

The BRICS Network University (BRICS NU) is a multilateral university network of BRICS member countries that promotes academic mobility, joint research, and institutional cooperation. India hosted the International Governing Board meeting of BRICS NU virtually on 21 July 2026 during its BRICS Presidency 2026, and also convened a conference on Traditional and Indigenous Knowledge Systems on 20 July 2026.

BRICS Network University

BRICS NU is a university consortium linked to the BRICS grouping of Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa. The network works through thematic groups and partner universities to support postgraduate education, research collaboration, and academic exchanges.

Governance and Action Plan

The International Governing Board is the main decision-making body of BRICS NU. In July 2026, the Board reviewed the BRICS Network University Action Plan for 2025–2028, discussed a new website, and considered measures for stronger institutional cooperation and academic mobility.

Thematic Groups and Membership

India proposed Traditional and Indigenous Knowledge Systems as a new International Thematic Group under BRICS NU in July 2026, and member countries gave broad support. BRICS NU expanded in 2024 and 2025 with the inclusion of Egypt, Ethiopia, Iran, the United Arab Emirates, and Indonesia, and new thematic areas such as Health Sciences, Mathematics, Natural Sciences, Social Sciences and Humanities, and Sustainable Agriculture and Food Security were added.

Important Facts for Exams

• BRICS stands for Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa.
• The BRICS Network University uses thematic groups for academic cooperation across member institutions.
• The BRICS Network University International Governing Board Declaration was adopted in July 2026.
• The 5th BRICS Postgraduate Forum is scheduled for 9 to 11 June 2026 at the University of Campinas in Brazil.

Related BRICS Academic Forums

The BRICS+ Universities Rectors’ Forum was first held in 2024 in Moscow, Russia. Its 2025 edition was planned for 5 to 7 June in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, with themes including Artificial Intelligence and Sustainable Development.