Education: India’s Gateway to Global Engagement, Says Jaishankar

External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar declared on Thursday that education is crucial for India’s deeper international connections. Speaking at an event marking the handover of a Letter of Intent to the University of Southampton, Jaishankar highlighted how the new campus in India reflects the goals of the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020.

Jaishankar emphasized that the establishment of the University of Southampton’s campus in India marks a significant milestone in international education. “This is not just a policy, but a vision to elevate our educational standards globally,” he said. The University of Southampton, ranked among the world’s top 100 universities, will open its first Indian campus as part of this initiative.

The minister noted that the event underscores the strong ties between India and the UK, with education being a key pillar of their bilateral relationship. The NEP 2020 aims to make India a hub for global education, attracting international students and fostering global competencies.

Jaishankar highlighted that the policy will help prepare Indian students for the global job market and tap into Indian talent and creativity. “Education today is a key vehicle for accelerating India’s global engagement,” he stated.

He expressed confidence that the University of Southampton will enrich India’s educational landscape with its expertise and innovation. This initiative will also broaden research opportunities and encourage a culture of knowledge exchange.

The collaboration aligns with the India-UK roadmap 2030, including mutual recognition of academic qualifications and the Young Professional Scheme (YPS), which offers young graduates opportunities to gain experience in each other’s countries.

Jaishankar also noted the broader scope of this cooperation, including joint research programs like the UK-India research initiatives and the Scheme for Promotion of Academic and Research Collaboration (SPARC), which address global challenges and promote faculty mobility through the Global Initiative of Academic Network (GIAN).

“This initiative will enhance India’s global educational standing and equip our students with the skills needed to thrive in the 21st century,” Jaishankar concluded.