The conference discussed trends and opportunities in transnational education partnerships between the UK and higher education institutions in Gujarat, with hopes of fostering internationalization.
The conference discussed trends and opportunities in transnational education partnerships between the UK and higher education institutions in Gujarat, with hopes of fostering internationalization.
India and the United Kingdom are engaged in discussions aimed at enhancing Gujarat’s higher education system during the Higher Education Conference held in Gujarat, the Gujarat Information Department announced.
The UK delegation participated in discussions during the conference, where they met Gujarat’s higher and technical education minister Rushikesh Patel. The discussions delved into the various provisions of the National Education Policy and explored topics related to the latest research in the education domain.
The UK in India recently coordinated a high-profile delegation focused on higher education. During this period, the delegation, in collaboration with the Department of Higher and Technical Education of the Government of Gujarat, arranged a significant academic consultation in Ahmedabad.
Agenda and objectives
The agenda of the conference was to discuss trends and opportunities in transnational education partnerships between the UK and higher education institutions in Gujarat. The aim was to foster internationalization, cultivate shared understanding and explore potential collaboration opportunities for institutions on both sides.
The delegation, comprising Vice Chancellors from various universities in the UK, engaged in comprehensive discussions concerning education-related recommendations, the potential for collaborative ventures involving new technology, and prospects for pursuing studies in the UK.
Perspective and remarks
Alison Barrett MBE, director of British Council India, expressed enthusiasm for being in Gujarat to explore partnership opportunities. “Institutions from the state and the UK are already working together, and we are confident that our discussions will pave the way for even more mutually beneficial initiatives. This is a moment to celebrate the deep and extensive links that exist between our universities and the numerous opportunities for collaboration and internationalization,” Barrett said. She also congratulated the minister for the recent passing of the Gujarat Public Universities Act by the Gujarat Legislative Assembly.
Welcome and key highlights
Patel welcomed the delegation and informed them about the research and innovation opportunities in Gujarat, highlighting the work being done in terms of Student Startup and Innovation Policy and startups. He said that discussions during the conference will contribute to achieving new dimensions in the higher education sector. They will aid in formulating a roadmap for the ongoing reforms in the education sector, ensuring they align with future needs and requirements.
The minister also highlighted the enduring significance of India-UK relations, in the context of capacity building within the state’s higher education system. The meeting discussed elevating Gujarat’s global academic standing through NEP provisions, implementing the Gujarat Public Universities Act, and enhancing education quality via the National Institutional Ranking Framework and Indian Council for Cultural Relations through SSIP.
