The Ministry of Education has taken a significant step towards advancing the goals of the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020 by issuing a Letter of Intent (LoI) to the University of Southampton (UoS), UK, for establishing its first campus in India. This announcement was made during the event titled “Internationalization of Education under NEP 2020,” held in New Delhi on August 29, 2024. The occasion was attended by Union Minister for External Affairs Dr S. Jaishankar, along with other dignitaries, including Sanjay Murthy, Secretary, Department of Higher Education, and Ms Christina Scott, Deputy High Commissioner, UK in India.
This initiative marks the first issuance of a Letter of Intent under the University Grants Commission (UGC) regulations, allowing foreign universities to set up campuses in India. The University of Southampton, ranked among the top 100 global higher education institutions, is set to offer Indian students unparalleled access to international education while maintaining a strong connection to Indian values.
Dr. Jaishankar, in his address, emphasised the significance of this collaboration, stating that it reflects India’s commitment to elevating educational standards to global levels and enhancing India-UK educational cooperation. He highlighted that this initiative aligns with the broader India-UK Road Map 2030, fostering international understanding and cooperation.
Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan also expressed his support, noting that this move is a step towards realising the NEP 2020 vision of “internationalisation at home.” He highlighted India’s commitment to fulfilling its global responsibilities and creating a vibrant ecosystem of research, knowledge exchange, and international collaboration. Pradhan extended his congratulations to the University of Southampton for strengthening India-UK relations through this initiative and invited other top international institutions to consider establishing campuses in India.
Also Read | Ministry of Education Rolls Out Second Phase of Learning Disability Training Program
The University of Southampton’s Delhi campus will initially offer programs in business, management, computing, law, engineering, art, design, biosciences, and life sciences, with a 10-year plan for course expansion. This development is expected to significantly enhance India’s reputation as a global study destination, fostering educational collaborations and contributing to the nation’s fast-growing knowledge economy. This initiative is seen as a major step forward in India’s journey towards becoming a global education and talent hub, in line with the goals outlined in NEP 2020.
