Two Australian universities, the University of Wollongong and the University of New South Wales, have announced plans to establish campuses in Gujarat’s GIFT City. This move comes as part of the Indian government’s efforts to improve the quality of higher education in the country and attract more international students.
GIFT City, short for Gujarat International Finance Tec-City, is a special economic zone located in the state of Gujarat, India. It was established in 2007 with the aim of creating a world-class business hub and financial center. The city is spread over 886 acres and includes various facilities such as commercial and residential buildings, schools, hospitals, and recreational areas.
The decision to set up campuses in GIFT City was made after discussions between the universities and the Indian government. The campuses will focus on subjects such as engineering, computer science, and business, and will offer undergraduate and postgraduate programs. The universities plan to start enrolling students in 2022, subject to regulatory approvals.
The move has been welcomed by the Indian government, which sees it as a significant step in its efforts to boost the country’s higher education sector. In recent years, the Indian government has launched various initiatives to improve the quality of education in the country, including the establishment of new universities, the introduction of new courses, and the expansion of existing institutions. The government has also introduced various measures to attract more international students, such as simplifying the visa process and offering scholarships.
The decision to set up campuses in GIFT City is also expected to benefit the Australian universities, which will be able to expand their global footprint and tap into the growing Indian market. India has a large and rapidly growing higher education sector, with over 37 million students enrolled in various institutions. The country is also home to a large number of young and talented individuals, many of whom are keen to pursue higher education abroad.