The University of Surrey is partnering with GUS Global Services (GGS) to launch an International Branch Campus in GIFT City, Gujarat. This initiative is designed to provide Indian students with a world-class education while strengthening the academic ties between the United Kingdom and India. The project aligns with India’s goal of becoming a global knowledge centre and supports the internationalisation framework outlined in the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020.
Enhancing UK-India Educational Collaboration
The announcement was made in Goa by Professor GQ Max Lu, President and Vice-Chancellor of the University of Surrey, and Dr Sharad Mehra, Regional CEO for Asia and Australia at Global University Systems (GUS). This initiative is expected to bring high-quality education to Indian students, allowing them to experience global academic excellence without travelling abroad.
Dr Sharad Mehra expressed his excitement about this partnership, saying, “The University of Surrey establishing its presence in GIFT City is a transformative step. This initiative allows Indian students to gain access to an international standard of education at a more affordable cost, right in their home country.”
Academic Excellence and Global Integration
Renowned for its contributions to teaching, research, and innovation, the University of Surrey aims to deliver cutting-edge educational programs at its GIFT City campus. The new campus will focus on key disciplines such as business, international finance, computer science, and cybersecurity.
Currently in the final planning stages, the project awaits regulatory approval from the Gujarat International Financial Services Centres Authority (IFSCA). Once launched, it will serve as a benchmark for transnational education, merging the best academic practices from the UK with the technological and financial advancements of GIFT City.
Aaron Etingen, CEO of Global University Systems, highlighted the importance of this collaboration, stating, “This partnership marks an important milestone in global education. We are dedicated to helping India’s brightest students gain access to a world-class learning experience. The University of Surrey consistently ranks among top global institutions and prepares students for international careers through a rigorous academic model.”
Ensuring High Academic Standards
To ensure the seamless execution of this initiative, the University of Surrey and GGS are working closely with the British High Commission and the British Council in India. The university will oversee all academic programs and quality control, while GGS will handle operational logistics and student services.
Professor GQ Max Lu highlighted the broader impact of the project, stating, “Our presence in GIFT City will serve as an outstanding model of British academic excellence. This initiative will merge India’s expertise in the global financial sector with the University of Surrey’s leadership in business, finance, and computer science education.”
Students enrolling at the GIFT City campus will follow an internationally recognized curriculum tailored to India’s evolving economic and technological environment. This initiative also aligns with the Indian government’s vision to establish GIFT City as a premier hub for global education.
Future Prospects and Strategic Vision
Following the QS India Summit announcement, a delegation from the University of Surrey and GGS visited GIFT City on January 31 to advance the project. High-level meetings were held to accelerate the implementation process, ensuring the campus is well-equipped to offer a transformative educational experience for Indian students.
Dr. Sharad Mehra reaffirmed the significance of this initiative, stating, “This venture will set new academic benchmarks and expand global learning opportunities for Indian students. It is in alignment with India’s higher education aspirations, enhancing global competitiveness and fostering international academic collaboration.”
By establishing a presence in India, the University of Surrey seeks to develop a globally competitive talent pool while strengthening its role in international education. The new campus will create avenues for research, academic partnerships, and industry collaboration between India and the UK, ultimately equipping students with the skills required for success in an interconnected world.
The launch of the University of Surrey’s International Branch Campus in GIFT City represents a significant milestone in India’s higher education landscape. By committing to academic excellence and global outreach, the initiative is set to redefine higher education by providing Indian students access to a world-class learning environment while positioning India as a leading international education destination.
