Deakin University officially unveils its India campus, opening India’s first-ever international branch campus.
This is a landmark initiative for both Deakin and India, who until today have held off allowing foreign institutions to operate on its soil. It’s also a win for broader Australian Indian relations.
“Australia setting up India’s first ever foreign university campus is a landmark moment in Australia-India relations. This opens a new chapter in our education ties, and this is only the beginning,” said His Excellency Philip Green OAM, Australian High Commissioner to India.
Deakin University was established in 1974 and has had a presence in India since 1994, making it one of the first overseas education providers to establish itself in the South Asia region.
Deakin’s new GIFT City Campus gives local students access to Deakin’s postgraduate courses in business analytics and cyber security at approximately half the cost of Australian international fees – 21 lacs rupees for the two-year course (fast-tracked to 18 months).
Deakin VC Ian Martin said, “Opening the world’s first international branch campus in India reflects our commitment to offering global education that empowers students to excel in the digital age. This is an investment in the future leaders who will uphold and strengthen the bond between our nations,”
“Steadfast in our promise to give back to the community and change lives, two fully funded scholarships will be awarded to economically challenged students, underlining Deakin’s commitment to foster educational equity and nurture local talent.”
“Commemorating Deakin University’s 50th anniversary and 30 years in India, opening our campus in India magnifies these milestones,” Professor Martin said.
The campus features brand-new digital classrooms, libraries and cyber security labs aimed at delivering an exceptional educational experience, while its digital integration with Deakin’s Australian campuses ensures students will have comprehensive access to essential learning resources.
The campus will also serve as a startup incubator, nurturing entrepreneurial talent and innovation with specialised short courses and extensive support to elevate the regional startup landscape.
Ms Ravneet Pawha, Deakin Vice-President (Global Alliances) and CEO (South Asia) said that it is an exciting time for cross-cultural education between Australia and India, and untapped global learning experiences. “Our bold vision is for GIFT City is to be a regional hub in the future, attracting students from across the globe to India, and offering Australian students a unique opportunity to spend a trimester at Gujarat,” she said.
“I commend the tireless efforts and support from both nations’ governments in realising this audacious project. This sets the stage for more innovative, expansive work in bilateral knowledge cooperation, envisioning a future where education knows no borders. I strongly encourage Indian students and professionals to embrace this opportunity and emerge as global pioneers in a tech-forward economy.”
Deakin GIFT City Campus applications close on 31 March 2024, with classes scheduled to commence in July 2024.
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