A Bold Vision for Free Education Takes Root in Anandpur Sahib

At a moment filled with purpose, Gyani Narinder Singh and Bill Sandhu hosted renowned philanthropist Dr. S. P. Singh Oberoi in Anandpur Sahib to unveil a remarkable initiative. Dr. Oberoi revealed plans to transform the Sunny Oberoi Vivek Sadan: Advance Institute of Social Sciences into a full-fledged university.

This institution will allow students to attend tuition-free and receive free accommodation and meals, making higher education truly accessible to all.

The new university represents more than bricks and mortar. The foundation stone was laid in a sacred ceremony led by the Panj Pyare (the Five Beloved Ones) at Takht Sri Kesgarh Sahib, with the blessings of revered saints from iconic sites such as Kila Anandgarh Sahib and Shaheedi Bagh.

Dr. Oberoi, the managing trustee, described the initiative as a divine blessing guided by the grace of Guru Gobind Singh Ji and firmly rooted in Sikh educational heritage. Supporting this bold journey is international Sikh scholar Dr. Sarbjinder Singh, appointed as the Vice-Chancellor, bringing over forty years of academic leadership experience. He will begin steering the university’s development in July.

Dr. Oberoi’s philanthropy is already longstanding and deeply impactful. His Sarbat Da Bhala Charitable Trust supports brilliant and underprivileged students across Punjab, Haryana, and Himachal Pradesh with full scholarships. He also founded the free Gurmat Sangeet College in Amritsar, which offers boarding, lodging, and a monthly stipend to talented students. Beyond education, he funds medical infrastructure, oxygen plants, and humanitarian services in rural and underserved areas.

The establishment of this university in Anandpur Sahib signals a turning point. It is a living tribute to learning, equality, and social responsibility. Here, education becomes a bridge rather than a barrier, offering opportunity and inspiration to future generations.

Photo Credit: J Minihas FB