Srinagar — Samir Ahmad Wagay, a Ph.D. scholar from the Department of Mathematics at the National Institute of Technology (NIT) Srinagar, has earned a prestigious spot to participate in the 14th Heidelberg Laureate Forum (HLF) scheduled to be held in Heidelberg, Germany, from September 13 to 22, 2025, reported the Greater Kashmir News.
Wagay is currently pursuing his doctoral research under the guidance of Dr. Rameez Raja, Assistant Professor in the Department of Mathematics. His selection places him among only 200 exceptional young researchers worldwide, chosen through a highly competitive process that highlights global talent in mathematics and computer science.
The Heidelberg Laureate Forum is regarded as one of the most esteemed networking events in the academic world. It brings together young researchers with laureates of the world’s most celebrated awards, including the Abel Prize, ACM A.M. Turing Award, ACM Prize in Computing, Fields Medal, IMU Abacus Medal, and the Nevanlinna Prize.
The week-long event provides participants with a rare opportunity to interact closely with these distinguished figures through lectures, workshops, and networking activities. All expenses including international travel, accommodation, and participation costs will be fully sponsored by the Heidelberg Laureate Forum Foundation.
Prof. Binod Kumar Kanaujia, Director of NIT Srinagar, congratulated Wagay and praised the Mathematics Department for nurturing research talent and connecting scholars with international academic platforms. Registrar Prof. Atikur Rehman also lauded Wagay’s achievement, calling it a moment of pride and a source of inspiration for other scholars.
Dr. Rameez Raja, Wagay’s supervisor, expressed his joy and emphasized that such forums provide invaluable exposure to international scientific discourse and peer networks.
The Heidelberg Laureate Forum was established in 2013 by the Heidelberg Laureate Forum Foundation, initiated by the German foundation Klaus Tschira Stiftung (KTS), which supports the promotion of mathematics, computer science, and natural sciences. The foundation was co-founded by physicist and SAP co-founder Klaus Tschira (1940–2015), who envisioned creating a platform for young scholars to interact with their scientific role models.
A formal agreement between organizing and award-granting institutions was signed in Oslo on May 22, 2012, laying the foundation for the annual forum which continues to inspire and empower the next generation of researchers.
