The delegates explored policy frameworks that facilitate internationalization, as well as measures to promote academic research and facilitate the two-way mobility of students and academic staff.
The delegates explored policy frameworks that facilitate internationalization, as well as measures to promote academic research and facilitate the two-way mobility of students and academic staff.
The United Kingdom and the South Indian state of Tamil Nadu had a three-day roundtable discussion on the internationalization of higher education institutions. The conference, organized by the British Council and the UK’s Department for Business and Trade, brought together a diverse group of delegates, including officials from UK universities and representatives from the higher education department of Tamil Nadu and 25 educational institutions based in the state.
Focus on education, research and innovation
This initiative is part of a broader focus on education, research and innovation within the India-UK bilateral relationship. A delegation of 31 UK higher education institutions visited India, engaging with academic leaders across 19 Indian states in a roundtable that centered on enhancing direct partnerships.
The delegates explored policy frameworks that facilitate internationalization, as well as measures to promote academic research and facilitate the two-way mobility of students and academic staff. Key programs that support such collaborations include the Going Global Partnerships and the UK-India Education Research Initiative, both facilitated by the British Council.
Institutional site visits
UK delegates visited prominent institutions such as the Indian Institute of Technology Madras and Anna University. These visits aim to foster institution-level partnerships, specifically promoting transnational education and research initiatives based on innovation.
The roundtable was inaugurated by Tamil Nadu’s Higher Education Minister K Ponmudy and School Education Minister Anbil Mahesh Poyyamozhi. Other notable dignitaries in attendance included Sir Steve Smith, the UK’s International Education Champion; Oliver Ballhatchet MBE, the British Deputy High Commissioner in Chennai; Maddalaine Ansell, Director Education, British Council; Adrian Chadwick OBE, Regional Director South Asia, British Council; and Janaka Pushpanathan, Director South India, British Council.
