India’s Global Education Drive: Empowering Change and Growth

India's global higher education
Image courtesy: Hindustan Times

India, on its path to becoming a 5 trillion-dollar economy, recognizes the pivotal role of education in achieving this goal. In an increasingly interconnected world, India is internationalizing its higher education landscape to create a more global connected academic community.

With around 38 million students across 50,000 educational institutions and 1,057 universities, India is taking steps to double its gross enrollment rate from 26.3% to 50% by 2035, aligning with global higher education trends. Despite challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic, India’s student mobility abroad has remained resilient, with over 4.4 lakh Indian students pursuing higher education overseas in 2021.

To provide a global educational environment within India, the Ministry of Education has formed strategic partnerships with Australian universities, establishing campuses in Gujarat’s GIFT City. India’s education policy focuses on flexibility in curricula, multiple entry/exit points, and integration of vocational education with general education, emphasizing lifelong learning and skill development.

Initiatives like the Livelihood program enhance Indian youth’s global employability, while collaborations with organizations like Pearson address upskilling and workforce development needs. English language proficiency, as demonstrated by platforms like PTE Academic, offers Indian professionals an advantage in the global job market.

Through internationalization and efforts in workforce development, India is nurturing future leaders with cross-cultural competencies and the skills needed to excel in an interconnected world.

Furthermore, India’s efforts in workforce development, up skilling, and reskilling are essential in preparing its youth for the ever-evolving demands of the global job market. Collaborations with key players in the industry and the emphasis on lifelong learning are equipping individuals with the skills needed to thrive in a rapidly changing environment.

Re-reported from the article originally published in The Hindustan Times