Union Minister of Commerce and Industry Piyush Goyal recently spoke about the potential of “education as a service” to enhance India’s exports and elevate Indian higher education on a global scale. He was addressing the Vice Chancellors’ Conclave in New Delhi, which focused on the future of internationalization in higher education.
The event, hosted by the Indian Institute of Foreign Trade (IIFT), brought together education leaders and policymakers to brainstorm ways to enhance global connections for Indian universities. Goyal emphasized that India’s reputable education system could significantly boost the country’s service exports while positioning India as a choice for international students.
Discussions covered various themes, including partnerships with other countries, student mobility, and innovative programs like dual degrees. The need for India as a growing economic player means students from developed nations must engage with India. Goyal mentioned that India contributes about 20% to global growth today, highlighting its importance for future career opportunities.
The National Education Policy (NEP) 2020 is crucial in shaping this landscape. Developed through extensive consultation, the policy aims to elevate educational standards and attract foreign students. At present, around three lakh suggestions were considered when creating the NEP, indicating a broad commitment to improvement.
Under the NEP, foreign universities can now set up campuses in India, fostering dual-degree programs and student exchanges. Goyal proposed flexible educational models, where international students could spend part of their studies in India, helping them understand developing economies better.
He also regarded Vice Chancellors as vital players in this mission, urging them to keep curricula updated to prepare students for modern job markets. Emphasizing the need to include subjects like international trade and advanced technology in academic programs is essential for students’ future success.
Goyal believes that with modernization, more Indian students will stay in the country for higher studies, and India will attract international students—currently, for every international student in India, 28 Indian students go abroad for education. He expressed hope that this would change, aiming for around 1.3 million international students to study in India in the coming years.
In conclusion, Goyal called for synergy between academia, government, and industry to realize a future where Indian higher education thrives on the global stage. Professor Rakesh Mohan Joshi from IIFT echoed this sentiment, noting the conclave’s role in positioning India as a premier destination for quality education.
Recent shifts in education and economic policy suggest this vision is attainable. With involved participation and strategic cooperation, India could emerge as a key player in the global educational arena, a hub for students worldwide looking for quality education.
For more on the landscape of global higher education, you can refer to the OECD’s Education at a Glance report.
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Piyush Goyal, Internationalisation of Higher Education, National Education Policy 2020, Viksit Bharat 2047, Indian Education Exports, Free Trade Agreements India, Global Education Mobility, IIFT Conclave
