Can India’s plan to allow foreign university campuses help retain local talent, benefit education system?
- Plan is part of efforts to turn India into a global education hub, keep Indian students in country for further studies
- Move is expected to help reduce costs Indian students have to pay to study abroad, but experts are mixed on whether it will boost education quality
“I am very excited. I am sure that a few top universities will want to come to India because of its human capital,” Taing said.
Manya Lama, in her final year of high school, shared Taing’s enthusiasm. “I think it’s a great idea. The quality of education (at international universities) is certainly better,” she said.
The plan to allow foreign university campuses is part of efforts by Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s government to turn India into a global education hub and strengthen its education system, while encouraging local students to remain in the country for further studies.
Only foreign universities placed in the top 500 of overall or subject-wise global rankings will be allowed to set up campuses in India within two years after receiving approval. They can offer degrees at various academic levels, but should ensure the standard of education offered is on a par with that in their country of origin.
The move is also expected to slash the cost of a degree programme and enable students in the country to get top-notch qualifications without having to travel.
