Union Minister for Education Dharmendra Pradhan recently underscored the strengthening educational partnership between India and Australia during a keynote speech at the Australian International Education Conference in Melbourne. This collaboration has seen significant developments, including the establishment of Australian university campuses in India, marking a promising advancement for bilateral cooperation in higher education.
In discussions with Australian Education Minister Jason Clare, Pradhan highlighted shared goals in skill development, early childhood education, and broader cooperation initiatives. Both leaders expressed interest in expanding school twinning programs and exploring pathways for more Australian universities to establish campuses in India, fostering direct academic engagement between the two nations.
NEP 2020: A Vision for Modern Education
Pradhan discussed the transformative National Education Policy (NEP) 2020, which aims to equip Indian students with essential 21st-century skills such as digital literacy, critical thinking, and interdisciplinary knowledge. This policy is viewed as a critical step in aligning India’s education system with global standards, preparing students for an interconnected job market and future leadership roles.
Education as a Global Partnership
As part of India’s “Vishwa-Bandhu” or global partner commitment, Pradhan emphasized the importance of collaboration in education, technology, and innovation to address pressing global challenges. This human-centric approach aligns with both countries’ goals of enriching student experiences and broadening access to quality education.
Australian Education Minister Jason Clare praised India’s educational growth, projecting that by 2035, one in four global university graduates will be Indian. Successful partnerships with institutions like Deakin University and the University of Wollongong demonstrate the strength of the India-Australia educational bond, which both nations aim to expand.
Exploring New Frontiers in Research and Early Education
Furthering these ties, Pradhan visited Victoria’s Premier, Jacinta Allan, and toured South Melbourne Primary School, observing innovative early education methods. He also visited research centers at the Royal Melbourne Institute of Technology (RMIT) and Monash University, focusing on future collaborations in emerging technologies and innovation.
With education emerging as a core pillar in India-Australia relations, both countries are committed to a partnership that supports students, promotes skill development, and addresses global educational challenges.
