In a rapidly globalising world, where economies and societies are increasingly interconnected, education systems must evolve to prepare students for local realities as well as global challenges and opportunities. This evolution is more than a necessity for India — it is an imperative. With its demographic dividend, robust education infrastructure, and growing global influence, India stands to position itself as a leading international knowledge hub and its young talent base as the changemakers of tomorrow.
The National Education Policy (NEP) 2020 has laid the groundwork for this transformation by emphasising internationalisation as a key strategy to revolutionise the Indian education ecosystem. This vision aligns with India’s aspirations to foster global citizens, empower students with world-class learning, and address pressing global challenges.
Preparing Global Citizens
Numbers reveal that over 40 million students across over 50, 000 academic institutions, including 1, 100 universities in India aim beyond conventional success goals. The targets are different and so are the stakes with increased competition. India, the second-largest higher education system globally can reap the advantages of internationalisation by nurturing talent and skills development at par with global benchmarks.
The foundation of global citizenship lies in understanding, respecting, and thriving in a diverse and multicultural world. Through partnerships, student exchange programs, and international collaborations, Indian students gain invaluable exposure to different cultures, ideas, and perspectives. This fosters empathy, intercultural competence, and adaptability —skills that are indispensable in today’s world.
Enhancing Global Competitiveness
Aligning with global education standards, Indian institutions can deliver world-class learning experiences through dual degrees, joint programs, and twinning initiatives which are supported by policy measures through the University Grants Commission (UGC). The guidelines on international collaborations have enabled Indian universities to partner and establish synergy with global institutions, bringing cutting-edge curricula and teaching practices to India.
Driving Research and Innovation
Collaborative research with international partners has proven to be a game-changer for addressing shared global challenges. Initiatives like the TERI-Deakin Nano Biotechnology Centre highlight the potential of translational research in areas such as sustainability, nanotechnology, and food security. These collaborations not only enhance academic excellence but also position Indian institutions as significant contributors to the global knowledge economy. Additionally, Indian research scholars are exposed to multi-national research climates, enhanced resources and funding, and advantageous platforms for presentation and publication of their work.
Boosting Employability with Future Skills
Employers today seek professionals who can navigate diverse work environments, communicate across cultures, and think innovatively, a leg up on their portfolios with what is being increasingly referred to as ‘future skills’.
Internationalised education equips students with these skills, enhancing their employability both locally and globally. Programs like Deakin’s partnership with the NSE Academy to offer the Global Job Readiness Program demonstrate the success of skilling partnerships and agile delivery of skill-based learning can better address industry demands.
Democratisation of Education – Accessibility and Inclusion
Every Indian student can now dream beyond domestic success and equip himself or herself with learning to ace goals sans borders. NEP 2020 has sought to enhance accessibility and inclusion in education by fostering collaborations with foreign institutions, enabling students and faculty with international exposure without cost barriers. By leveraging technology, students from Tier 2 and Tier 3 cities can access international curricula and interact with global faculty without leaving their hometowns. The policy approach fosters enhanced talent capital with a diversity of learning practices and multicultural experiences.
Additionally, a diverse suite of financial assistance and scholarships ensures equitable access to international education for students broadening opportunities for all.
International Education, Indian Soil
The establishment of international branch campuses in India is a leap forward in the globalisation of the Indian education system. It enhances the pathways for Indian students to imbibe and hone global competencies while gaining exposure to a different pedagogy of learning and curated world curriculum. The first cohort of students at India’s first international branch campus i.e Deakin University GIFT City Campus at Gujarat International Finance Tec-City (GIFT City) is gaining real-world learning with enhanced orientation to industry and hands-on learning and an added advantage of a repertoire of targeted skills.
Such initiatives not only retain Indian talent but also attract international students and faculty, creating a vibrant, multicultural academic ecosystem.
Shaping Talent for the Future
To maximize the benefits of internationalisation in education, India is creating an ecosystem that blends global standards with local needs. Simplified regulatory frameworks have encouraged foreign institutions to establish campuses in India, while scaling co-branded joint degree programs and higher degree by research programs that ensure affordable global exposure for students. Indian has indeed done well for its young talent by opening the doors to foreign participation.
Facilitating smoother visa processes and scholarship opportunities are further motivators that inspire students to set their standards higher than ever. International student mobility is increasingly becoming two-way fostering cross-cultural learning.
Additionally, investing in dedicated research hubs and learning infrastructure both online and on-ground by international partners are substantially supporting capacity-building measures in education by India. Focused and enhanced research in emerging fields like AI, renewable energy, and biotechnology is driving innovation and gearing students with unparalleled opportunities to thrive in a competitive world.
As a dedicated partner to India for over 30 years, Deakin University has consistently sought to make high-quality Australian education accessible to Indian students through diverse channels. With a broad and deep institutional partnership with premier Indian institutions such as Manipal Academy of Higher Education, Symbiosis International University, ISB, Indian Institute of Technology, Hyderabad and Madras and others, Deakin has consistently delivered the value of internationalisation to Indian students.
By combining international best practices with local relevance, Deakin aims to empower students with skills and knowledge that transcend borders.
The internationalisation of Indian education is not just about attracting foreign universities or sending students abroad; it is about creating a globally integrated system that prepares students to lead and excel in a complex world. At Deakin, we view this as a shared responsibility and an extraordinary opportunity. By working together—government, academia, and industry—we can ensure that India’s education system matches global standards while setting new benchmarks for innovation, inclusivity, and excellence.
Authored by: Ravneet Pawha, Vice President (Global Engagement) and CEO (South Asia), Deakin University, Australia
Ravneet Pawha has more than 30 years of experience in international education, research, and skilling. She played a key role in establishing Deakin University as a pioneering and model for impactful knowledge engagement in India while advancing global initiatives in smart manufacturing, healthcare technologies, and sustainable infrastructure, significantly enhancing Australia-India bilateral engagement. Ravneet’s strategic vision was instrumental in Deakin launching India’s first international branch campus – Deakin University GIFT City Campus, India, underscoring her influence in transnational education.
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Published – December 04, 2024 05:18 pm IST
