The keynote panel on July 26, which discussed the possibility of “India as an education superpower”, hosted by The PIE’s CEO Amy Baker, brought together experts to explore opportunities for growth and collaboration in the education sector. The panel highlighted various strategies to enhance education in India, including building new campuses, expanding beyond select cities, seeking online collaborations, and more.
Rittika Chanda Parruck MBE, director of education at the British Council, expressed optimism about the future of UK universities in India, citing the progress made in mutual recognition of qualifications and increased collaboration between the two countries over the past 15 years. She credited India’s National Education Policy (NEP) 2020 as a significant driver of change in the education landscape.
Austrade, Australia’s trade and investment agency, has also made strides in India, establishing two new Australian campuses in GIFT city. Vik Singh, trade and investment commissioner for Austrade in South Asia, emphasized the agency’s commitment to building a strong presence in India and fostering partnerships with local institutions.
The efforts of the UK and Australia to engage with the Indian market reflect a collaborative approach rather than a competitive one. Stuart Bannerman, associate pro-VC international at LSBU Global, highlighted the importance of decolonized transnational education and the need for India to determine its receptiveness to international institutions.
Organizations like Emeritus have leveraged online and international collaborations to provide accessible and affordable education in India. Sid Taparia, vice president of corporate development at Emeritus, emphasized the importance of partnerships with universities to deliver skill development programs for working professionals in India and other countries.
With over 45 million enrollments in the Indian higher education sector annually, online education presents a significant opportunity to bridge the gap in supply. Despite India’s reputation as a price-sensitive market, Parruck noted that Indian students prioritize the value and benefits of a qualification over its cost, particularly in terms of employability and international mobility.
As India aims to add 80 million more university places by 2030 to achieve a 50% gross enrollment ratio, stakeholders must consider strategies to meet this growing demand. Countries like Australia are exploring opportunities beyond the GIFT City model and looking to expand their presence in other Indian cities.
The panel also discussed the importance of international institutions supporting the „have-nots“ in India’s education system and promoting accessibility and affordability. Bannerman emphasized the need for education models that prioritize humanity-based interests and flexible delivery methods to cater to diverse student needs.
In conclusion, the panel highlighted the potential for international collaboration and innovation to drive India’s transformation into an education superpower. With a focus on accessibility, affordability, and quality, stakeholders can work together to shape a brighter future for education in India.