Category: partnerships

  • key headlines from East and Southeast Asia

    key headlines from East and Southeast Asia

    From China’s TNE reforms, to Japan’s internationalisation push, East Asia is in the midst of a drive to attract more international students. Meanwhile, Southeast Asian countries are deepening higher education links with the UK and Australia while seeking to attract international students themselves.

    Here’s The PIE’s pick of the biggest international education stories of the region from the year that’s just gone.

    1. Universities across ASEAN join forces to strengthen HE collaboration and partnerships

    At the ASEAN Universities Exhibition and Forum 2025, which brought together universities from across Southeast Asia, more than 10 collaborations were signed between ASEAN institutions, highlighting growing regional cooperation in higher education. The forum also emphasised a collective commitment to strengthening Asia’s position as a “rising contender” to the traditional big four study destinations.

    Key announcements included the soft launch of the ASEAN Global Exchange for Mobility & Scholarship (ASEAN GEMS) platform and the launch of the ASEAN Student Mobility Program in collaboration with Universiti Utara Malaysia and 13 Malaysian universities, with transnational education being underscored as a “key pillar” of the region’s higher education future.

    2. East Asian countries view internationalisation as key to sustaining regional economic growth

    In 2025, most East Asian countries were clear that international students and intra-regional mobility are key to sustaining strong economic growth. The “Asian tigers” — Hong Kong, South Korea, Taiwan and Singapore — have been central to this shift, with places like Hong Kong actively diversifying their student body to include learners from India, Nigeria, Indonesia, Saudi Arabia, Afghanistan and other emerging markets.

    While enrolments from East Asia to UK universities remain steady, rising price sensitivity and expanding regional options are reshaping student flows. At the same time, uneven wage growth across East Asia has coincided with student mobility within the region growing faster between 2013 and 2020 than mobility to major English-speaking destinations.

    3. Malaysia’s rise as Asia’s “belle of the ball” for international students

    The Southeast Asian country has seen a 26% rise in international applications over the past two years and has set a target of hosting 250,000 international students by 2030.

    With the majority of applications coming from China, India, Indonesia, Bangladesh and Pakistan, the Malaysian government announced plans last year to introduce a centralised system aimed at streamlining international student admissions, alongside collaboration with source countries to ensure a “smooth and secure” process.

    Moreover, Malaysia is seeking to grow recruitment from Central Asia and Africa, though the planned introduction of a 6% service tax on private education services for non-Malaysian students has raised concerns about the destination’s long-term attractiveness.

    4. Chinese student demand softens for the Big Four, especially the US

    A July 2025 webinar confirmed what many had long suspected: China is no longer the “easy goldmine” it once was. Chinese students are increasingly opting for alternatives closer to home, with countries like the US and Canada seeing notable declines in Chinese enrolments, while destinations such as the UK, Australia and New Zealand have shown opposite trends.

    This shift comes as China issued warnings to its student nationals in April last year to exercise caution when planning to study in certain US states following the passage of Ohio’s higher education bill, which restricts Chinese partnerships.

    At the same time, the Trump administration pledged to “aggressively revoke” visas for Chinese students with links to the Chinese Communist Party or those studying in “critical fields”, although the President has since defended Chinese students as an important part of the US higher education system on separate occasions.

    5. China aims to expand TNE enrolments from 800,000 to eight million within a decade

    In 2025, China’s education ministry announced a series of updates to its TNE policy during a briefing for international diplomatic missions, as part of efforts to scale up TNE enrolments nationwide.

    The revised framework eases several restrictions, including removing the 1,200-student enrolment cap previously applied to joint education institutes and programmes. It also expands flexibility beyond the traditional 4+0 model to include 3+1 and other blended formats that allow students to spend part of their studies overseas, while enabling institutions to submit multiple applications within a single approval cycle.

    Against this backdrop, a Universities Australia delegation led by chair Carolyn Evans and supported by CEO Luke Sheehy visited Shenzhen and Beijing in October 2025 to renew partnerships in education, research and innovation, with the aim of deepening cooperation in areas critical to both countries, including clean energy, advanced manufacturing, health and technology.

    6. Japan moves to increase international students and researchers

    Japan’s Ministry of Education (MEXT) is planning to raise enrolment caps at select institutions to boost international student numbers.

    Under the proposals, some universities, junior colleges and technical colleges would be allowed to exceed their enrolment limits by up to 5% from the next academic year, starting in April 2026. The move forms part of the government’s push to meet its target of attracting 400,000 international students by 2033.

    In parallel, Japan has launched a new program aimed at attracting overseas researchers to 11 institutions as it seeks to position itself as a world-class research hub. Led by MEXT, the initiative will see ¥3.3bn allocated across the universities to support researchers over the next three years.

    7. South Korea hits 300k international student goal two years ahead of schedule

    International student enrolments in South Korea surpassed 300,000 for the first time in August 2025, according to government immigration data, with more than a third of students coming from Vietnam. Chinese students made up 28% of the total, followed by smaller cohorts from Uzbekistan, Mongolia and Nepal.

    The growth has been driven largely by government policy, particularly the launch of the “Study Korea 300K” initiative in 2023, which aimed to reach the target by 2027.

    Measures under the strategy included easing financial requirements for D-2 student visas, expanding permitted working hours during study, extending post-study job-seeking periods, and stepping up recruitment in Southeast and Central Asia. Universities were also given greater flexibility to introduce English-taught programmes and strengthen student support.

    However, challenges remain, with experts pointing to a lack of clear pathways linking international students to employers. Students and the labour market remain largely disconnected, even as around 90% of international students hope to stay and work in South Korea after graduation.

    8. China rolls out K visa in bid to attract international talent

    Effective since October 1, the K visa is open to international youths with undergraduate or STEM degrees from leading domestic and global research institutions, as well as early-career professionals engaged in education and research in STEM fields.

    The visa is designed to offer greater convenience through multiple entries, longer validity, and extended stay durations, while also facilitating exchanges and collaboration across education, science, technology, culture, business, and entrepreneurship, with applications assessed based on age, education, and work experience rather than requiring sponsorship from a local enterprise.

    The move comes amid declining interest in pursuing artificial intelligence degrees in the US, alongside growing interest in studying AI in China. The K visa is being seen as a significant step in China’s efforts to attract young international science and technology talent and challenge US technological leadership.

    9. Monash opens second Malaysia campus amid Australia’s Southeast Asia push

    Monash University Malaysia will partner with TRX City, developer of Kuala Lumpur’s Tun Razak Exchange, to deliver its RM2.8 billion (USD $1bn) investment in a new campus aimed at deepening engagement in the ASEAN region.

    Scheduled to open in 2032, the campus will eventually accommodate 22,500 students and 1,700 staff, featuring cutting-edge research centres in energy transition, health, AI, and data science.

    The move aligns with Invested: Australia’s Southeast Asia Economic Strategy to 2040, which seeks to strengthen ties between Australia and Southeast Asia across education, agriculture, and resources.

    10. TOEIC cheating in Japan raises questions about paper-based test delivery

    Japan cancelled 803 TOEIC scores following a student’s arrest for cheating, prompting a review of tests taken since May 2023.

    The testing company said maintaining the integrity and fairness of its assessments is a top priority, with security measures described as “multilayered” and “regionally adaptive”.

    11. China and Japan warn students about safety in each other’s countries

    Last year, China and Japan issued safety warnings for students amid rising diplomatic tensions. China’s Ministry of Education cited “social unrest” and increasing crimes against Chinese nationals in Japan, while Japan advised its citizens in China, particularly students, to exercise extra caution and said it was working to ensure their safety.

    The warnings followed Japanese PM Sanae Takaichi’s statement that any Chinese military action against Taiwan could threaten Japan’s survival, prompting Beijing to call the remarks “brazenly provocative”.

    With over 123,000 Chinese students in Japan and more than 10,000 Japanese students in China as of May 2024, both countries are now expected to see a decline in student enrolments.

    12. First UK-Australia university campus opens in Indonesia

    The Deakin Lancaster Indonesia University (DLI) campus, first announced in January 2024, officially opened in Bandung, West Java, on February 26, 2025.

    The campus represents the first UK-Australian transnational education (TNE) partnership in Indonesia, allowing students to complete dual undergraduate degrees from Deakin University and Lancaster University without leaving the country.

    13. Vietnam’s growing international education strategy and UK partnership gain traction

    Vietnam aims to increase international students from 0.5% to 1.5% of enrolments and improve the global standing of its universities, targeting top-500 positions worldwide and top-200 in Asia. The government’s 2030 strategy focuses on advancing education, science, research, and innovation, with a vision extending to 2045.

    Separately, Vietnam is opening its doors to UK institutions to establish branches and expand operations, as the country positions itself as an emerging hub for international education.

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  • South Asia’s biggest international education stories

    South Asia’s biggest international education stories

    1. India set to become the world’s largest higher education system by 2047

    Delegates at The PIE Live India 2025 heard how India’s projected eightfold growth into a $30 trillion economy presents vast opportunities for higher education, with Niti Aayog’s Shashank Shah asking attendees, “If not India, then where?”. Speakers also highlighted that India is on track to become the world’s largest higher education system by 2035, with over 90 million students — positioning transnational education as a key growth driver.

    2. Outbound Indian university enrolments fall after three-year rise

    For the first time in three years, Indian students pursuing higher education saw a drop of around 5.7%, with over 1.25 million studying at international universities and tertiary institutions, compared to 1.33 million in 2024. This comes amid a range of policy changes in major destinations and the rise of cheaper, nearer options for students.

    The decline is also reflected in growing financial uncertainty around studying abroad in India, with remittances for overseas education falling to their lowest level in eight years when comparing April – August 2025 figures.

    3. More Australian and UK universities set sights on campuses in India

    In July 2025, four universities from the UK and Australia — La Trobe University, Victoria University, Western Sydney University, and the University of Bristol — received Letters of Intent (LoIs) to establish branch campuses in India, just a month after the University Grants Commission (UGC) issued LOIs to five other universities from the UK, US, Australia, and Italy. Currently, nine UK and seven Australian universities have either opened campuses or are in the process of doing so, with not only GIFT City but other economic hubs such as Noida, Bengaluru, Mumbai, Gurugram, and Chennai also hosting campuses.

    Despite this growth, The PIE has explored the rising debate around the “rush” to enter India’s higher education space at a time when international universities are cutting back on jobs and research, particularly in the UK, where four in ten English universities are believed to be in financial deficit, according to the Office for Students (OfS).

    4. Southampton opens India operations, attracts applications from Middle East and South Asia

    The University of Southampton, the UK’s first branch campus in India, told The PIE at The PIE Live India 2025 in January that the process of establishing its Delhi campus had been “fast, frenetic [and] exciting” from start to finish.

    The India campus, which began operations in August 2025, has since gained strong traction, receiving over 800 applications, with around 200 students joining the first cohort, and applications also coming from the UAE, Nepal, and Myanmar.

    5. Sri Lanka set to welcome first ever UK university campus

    The South Asian island nation, which is the second-largest host of UK TNE students, saw its first-ever UK university branch campus this year, with the University of West London launching a dedicated facility in the capital, Colombo, for local students.

    Meanwhile, Charles Sturt University is set to become the third Australian university to establish a campus in Sri Lanka. The country’s skills gaps and its Vision 2048 development agenda are driving Sri Lanka to pursue such opportunities, as it continues to face limited capacity across its 20 public universities, despite around 160,000 students seeking tertiary education each year.

    6. Trump and Modi pledge stronger India–US higher education ties

    While US President Donald Trump and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi appear at odds on trade, with Trump doubling tariffs on India to as much as 50%, both leaders are advocating closer ties in higher education. Their focus includes scientific research, dual degrees, joint centres of excellence, and offshore campuses, with Illinois Tech becoming the first US institution to receive approval for a campus in India.

    7. Cities within cities to host international university campuses

    Major Indian cities are planning dedicated education hubs on the outskirts of newly developing urban areas. While “Third Mumbai”, a purpose-built education city, is set to host five international universities near the upcoming Navi Mumbai International Airport, the Tamil Nadu Industrial Development Corporation (TIDCO) is developing the Knowledge City in Tiruvallur.

    The Tamil Nadu Knowledge City aims to create a first-of-its-kind education and research hub in southern India, attracting both international and domestic universities, along with academic institutions and research organisations.

    8. Bangladeshi government opens doors to international campuses and dual programs

    Bangladesh’s University Grants Commission (UGC) has announced its plans to develop “clear and stringent” guidelines for formulating a policy around international university branches in the country. While there has been interest from countries like the UK and Malaysia, the policy’s review and national interest assessments are currently underway.

    The establishment of branch campuses would be seen as key, as Bangladeshi students have faced increasing visa denials and allegations of misusing study visa status to enter the labour market, with universities in the UK and countries like Denmark imposing restrictions on them.

    9. F‑1 visa declines hit India and China hardest

    Though India has retained its position as the US’s largest sending country, accounting for 31% of all international students according to 2024/25 data, it — along with China — has borne the brunt of declining US study visa issuances. The number of Indian students receiving US study visas fell by over 41% in the year to May 2025, amid a range of policies targeting international students, including heightened social media vetting, proposed visa time limits, and increased deportations and SEVIS status terminations over political views and other minor misdemeanours.

    These developments have made international students, particularly Indians, more cautious about studying in what is widely considered the world’s top study destination.

    10. India to unveil new scheme for Indian-origin researchers overseas

    India’s Ministry of Education, the Department of Science and Technology (DST), and the Department of Biotechnology (DBT) are working to “bring back” Indian-origin researchers and scientists with strong academic credentials, targeting 12–14 priority STEM areas deemed strategically important for national capacity building.

    11. UGC launches dedicated portal for study-abroad returnees in India

    In April 2025, the UGC launched a standardised framework for recognising international degrees in India. Indian students who have studied abroad and wish to return for further education or employment can now apply for an equivalence certificate through the higher education body’s portal by paying the prescribed fee.

    12. B2B international education platform Crizac debuts on Indian stock market

    Kolkata-headquartered Crizac, which plans to expand beyond student recruitment into areas such as student loans, housing, and other services, and is targeting new geographies and growth markets within India, raised £74 million in its Initial Public Offering (IPO).

    The company listed on the National Stock Exchange (NSE) and Bombay Stock Exchange (BSE), becoming one of the few education platforms to enter the IPO space. Major edtech players like PhysicsWallah followed later, aiming for a USD$3.6 billion valuation through a USD$393 million IPO.

    13. Cost drives Pakistan’s TNE growth as student mobility barriers rise

    International universities and education providers are pivoting to TNE in Pakistan due to the country’s price-sensitive environment which is creating challenges for students going abroad for education. While Pakistan faces weak investment in research and development, its strategic growth vision is driving rising demand for international qualifications among students, delegates heard at The PIE Live Europe 2025.

    This shift is particularly significant as several institutions, especially from the UK, have halted recruitment in certain cities and increased deposit requirements from 50% to the full tuition fee.

    14. International universities tap into Nepal’s mobile student population

    With a student mobility ratio of 19% — ten times that of its giant neighbours, India and China — Nepal has attracted visits from over 16 universities under the Nepal Rising initiative. The country is already planning 30 or more franchise TNE campuses, with 30,000 students approved by the Ministry of Education.

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  • Who’s helping UK unis open their Indian campuses?

    Who’s helping UK unis open their Indian campuses?

    India is becoming the next transnational education (TNE) hotspot, with nine top UK universities having announced plans to open overseas branch campuses out there. Earlier this year, the University of Southampton became the first of this new tranche of campuses to open its doors, with several others close behind.

    As the TNE boom continues, several universities have revealed the independent providers that are helping them set up their campuses in India. Meanwhile, other providers have expressed an interest in this space.

    Here’s our list of who’s working with who.

    Who’s opening a campus in India?

    Nine UK universities have confirmed they are joining the TNE scramble in India. They are:

    1. The University of Southampton
    2. The University of Liverpool
    3. The University of York
    4. The University of Aberdeen
    5. The University of Bristol
    6. Coventry University
    7. The University of Surrey
    8. Lancaster University
    9. Queen’s University Belfast

    Who are they working with?

    Oxford International Education Group (OIEG) – Southampton has confirmed it worked with OIEG in setting up its campus in Gurugram, which opened earlier this year. OIEG provided the financial backing and the professional services needed to set up the campus

    India Business Group – Another provider assisting Southampton on the ground, India Business Group is providing the university with strategic support.

    Emeritus and Daskalos – The University of York has confirmed it is working with the edtech platform Emeritus to set up its Mumbai campus. Working alongside Emeritius is Daskalos – a new venture from Atul Khosla, the founder and vice-chancellor of Shoolini University, as confirmed by Khosla in a LinkedIn post. Khosla has said Emeritus and Daskalos’s partners include “three Russell Group Universities, one of the oldest universities of the world, a top tier US university and a leading Australian university”.

    Khosla has also confirmed on LinkedIn that Daskalos and Emeritus are working with the University of Liverpool on its Bengaluru campus, as well as the University of Bristol on its Mumbai campus. Meanwhile, it appears that the University of Aberdeen may be another institution working with the duo, with a job posting advertising an Emeritus job at the university.

    Study World – The education infrastructure company Study World is working with Coventry on its GIFT City campus, according to local news reports. The company’s group chief operating officer Kate Gerrard is quoted as saying: “Study World has over two decades of experience in delivering a wide range of educational services in partnership with leading international universities around the world. This association with Coventry University in India will be highly beneficial for students in India and the wider region.”

    GUS Global Services – The University of Surrey has confirmed it it is working with GUS Global Services, with GUS leading on strategic support services such as Indian student enrolment support, advice on the local market and campus and operational management.

    For their part, Lancaster University and Queens University Belfast have remained tight lipped on which providers – if any – they are working with as they explore setting up campuses in India.

    Which other providers could be eyeing up opportunities?

    GEDU Global Education – the UK-headquartered company has already invested in several campuses in GIFT City, making it a prime provider to step in and help institutions set up overseas branches in India.

    UniQuad – an arm of ECA, which has previously partnered with UK universities to run overseas campuses and other TNE projects, UniQuad is a new division with a specific goal of introducing university partners to India’s evolving educational landscape, meaning it’s well placed to help in this area.

    Amity – the private Indian provider is already working with major British institutions – such as Queen Mary University of London – on program articulation arrangements in India, as well as having MoUs with others on things like joint research and dual degrees. Could it be looking to expand into new ventures?

    British Council – while the British Council isn’t a private provider, it is a key strategic enabler for institutions looking to set up in India. It can help with policy dialogue and advocacy, support through the UK Universities in India Alliance, as well as providing market intelligence, helping institutions decide which partners are right for them.

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  • Saudi and Australia forge new paths in education and research

    Saudi and Australia forge new paths in education and research

    During the visit, Al-Benyan met with Australia’s minister of education, Jason Clare, where discussions focused on expanding ties in higher education, scientific research, and innovation, with emphasis on joint university initiatives, including twinning programs and faculty and student exchanges designed to build stronger academic links between the two countries.

    The research collaboration was prominently featured on the agenda, with both sides highlighting opportunities in fields such as artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, renewable energy, and health sciences. The minister also discussed investment opportunities in Saudi Arabia’s evolving education sector under Vision 2030, with a view to establishing local branches and research centers.

    Australia’s expertise in technical and vocational training was another focal point, as Saudi looks to enhance human capital development and equip its young population with the skills needed to succeed in the future labor market. Both ministers underlined the importance of supporting Saudi students in Australia by strengthening academic pathways and ensuring a welcoming educational and social environment.

    As well as his meeting with Clare, Al-Benyan held talks with professor Phil Lambert, a leading Australian authority on curriculum development. Their discussions centered on collaboration with Saudi Arabia’s National Curriculum Centre to develop learning programs that promote critical thinking, creativity, and innovation.

    The meeting reviewed best practices in student assessment, teacher training, and professional certification, aligning with global standards. Opportunities for joint research on performance evaluation and digital education methods were also explored with the aim of integrating advanced technologies into classrooms.

    Al-Benyan also took part in the Saudi-Australian Business Council meeting in Sydney, where he highlighted investment opportunities in the Kindgdom’s education sector in line with Vision 2030.

    Education is a key pillar globally and a central focus of Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030, which aims to create a world class education system that nurtures innovation and drives future ready skills
    Sam Jamsheedi, president and chairman of the Australian Saudi Business Forum

    Conversations covered the launching of scholarship and exchange programs, advancing educational infrastructure and technologies, and promoting joint research in priority fields such as health, energy, and artificial intelligence, underscoring the importance of developing programs to enhance academic qualifications and support initiatives for persons with disabilities, while reaffirming Saudi Arabia’s commitment to supporting investors through regulatory incentives and strategic backing.

    “It was a pleasure to welcome the Minister of Education, His Excellency Yousef Al Benyan, as part of the official Ministry of Education, Saudi Arabia delegation from the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia to Australia,” said Sam Jamsheedi, president and chairman of the Australian Saudi Business Forum.

    “Education is a key pillar globally and a central focus of Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030, which aims to create a world class education system that nurtures innovation and drives future ready skills.”

    “Our Council was proud to host a roundtable with leading Australian universities and training providers, giving Ministerial attendees first hand insights into Australia’s capabilities across higher education, vocational training, and research collaboration.”

    “Australian education already has a strong presence in the Kingdom, with a growing number of partnerships across early childhood education, schooling, technical training & university programs,” he added.

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  • Top UK unis partner on career initiatives for India and China

    Top UK unis partner on career initiatives for India and China

    The University of Birmingham, home to over 2,000 Indian students, has partnered with the University of Glasgow to create a new in-country role in India employability relationship manager – who will be responsible for building links with employers, career services, and alumni networks to help graduates succeed in the local job market.

    According to a joint statement issued by the institutions, graduates will be offered practical support through pre-entry briefings, skills development programs, and post-graduation engagement.

    The two universities have also launched an exclusive partnership with the Chinese graduate career support organisation, JOBShaigui.

    The career portal, well regarded in China for its links to top employers, will offer a range of bespoke services, including online seminars with the latest job market insights, guidance on recruitment processes, access to an extensive employer network, and in-country networking events with alumni and employers.

    Both Birmingham and Glasgow, ranked among the QS global top 100, see China and India, with their combined 400,000 alumni worldwide, as priority markets.

    Offering enhanced career support is seen as crucial, as recent trends show a majority of students from these countries are choosing to return home after their study abroad journey.

    “More and more students, quite reasonably, are saying: I want to know what my employment prospects are after getting a degree. We do a lot to prepare students for their future careers while they study with us, but it has become increasingly clear that we must also support them after they graduate,” Robin Mason, pro-vice-chancellor (international) at the University of Birmingham, told The PIE News.

    “Our two largest cohorts of international students are from China and India, so we said: for these two really important countries, we’re going to create in-country support for careers and employability career fairs, interview preparation, CV workshops, all those sorts of things.”

    Increasingly, after that period of work in the UK, Indian graduates are looking to come back home to India
    Robin Mason, University of Birmingham

    While both Birmingham and Glasgow already collaborate on joint research, particularly in the medical field, the career support initiative made sense as the cost could be shared between the two universities, according to Mason.

    Moreover, the universities expect the initiative to be particularly successful in India, from where students make up the largest cohort of graduate visa holders.

    “Particularly Indian students, more than Chinese students, want to stay in the UK after graduation. But increasingly, after that period of work in the UK, Indian graduates are looking to come back home to India,” stated Mason.

    According to Mason, while most Indian students prefer fields such as computer science, data science, engineering, business management, finance, economics, and health-related subjects, in principle students of any discipline, “even classics, English, or history”, will be supported equally in their careers back in India.

    The initiatives also come at a time when international students in the UK are being urged to “sharpen their skills” for both the UK and global job markets, as employers increasingly look beyond “textbook skills” to focus on a candidate’s ability to bring innovation to the table.

    Further plans in India for University of Birmingham

    Although the University of Birmingham operates an overseas campus in Dubai, an attractive option for Indian students given its proximity to the UK and large Indian community, the institution has no plans to establish a campus in India anytime soon.

    Instead, it is focusing on initiatives such as the in-country employability role and partnerships with local institutions.

    While the University of Birmingham offers dual degrees with Jinan University in China in fields such as maths, economics, statistics, and computing, it is now exploring a partnership with IIT Bombay in India in areas such as quantum technology, energy systems, AI, and healthcare, building on its successful venture with IIT Madras.

    “If you do it properly, campuses are very expensive things. I don’t think you do these things lightly. You have to make the investment and be there for the long term,” said Mason. “Birmingham is 125 years old this year, and you need to be thinking in terms of decades if you’re going to build a campus. It’s a really long-term commitment because it takes so much time and investment to build a high-quality university.”

    As part of its 125-year celebrations, the institution also announced scholarships for Indian students, offering funding of £4,000 to £5,000 for a wide range of postgraduate taught master’s degrees starting in September 2025.

    “As part of our 125th anniversary celebrations, we introduced a special scholarship, offering up to 40% funding for students joining our Dubai campus,” stated Devesh Anand, regional director, South Asia and Middle East, University of Birmingham.

    “This was combined with academic and merit-based scholarships, giving students the opportunity to access multiple forms of support. The response has been fantastic, as students saw it as a real achievement and recognition of their efforts.”

    The number of Indian students studying in the UK remains high, with the Home Office data showing 98,014 study visas granted in the year ending June 2025.

    However, not everything is rosy, as students are increasingly concerned about their future in light of the immigration white paper, which proposes reducing the Graduate Route by six months and imposing a levy on international student fees.

    In such a situation, the aim for institutions like the University of Birmingham is to remain attractive to graduates seeking employment opportunities.

    “What we have to ensure is that University of Birmingham graduates are career-ready and can get the sorts of jobs that allow them to continue working in the UK if they want to, so they can be sponsored by an employer at the required graduate-level salary,” said Mason.

    “To put it delicately, I think the universities that will struggle with the immigration changes are those not paying enough attention to employability. If your graduates are employable, it’s not an issue.”

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  • EaseMyTrip enters sector with almost 50% stake in Planet Education

    EaseMyTrip enters sector with almost 50% stake in Planet Education

    As part of its diversification drive, the travel platform has formed a strategic alliance with Planet Education to forge its path into international study tourism. 

    According to an exchange filing by EaseMyTrip last year, the company acquired its stake in the study-abroad organisation by purchasing shares from existing shareholders through the issuance of fully paid-up equity shares of EaseMyTrip worth INR 39.20 crore (approximately £3.5 million).

    While EaseMyTrip, a publicly listed company on India’s National Stock Exchange (NSE) and Bombay Stock Exchange (BSE), will provide Planet Education with access to its customer base and technological capabilities, the travel platform is expected to gain from Planet Education’s 25 years of experience in the international education sector, including expertise in counselling, university placements, and visa assistance.

    Leveraging Planet Education’s expertise, we aim to simplify the process of visas and documentation for students, making it hassle-free
    Nishant Pitti, EaseMyTrip

    “Every year, lakhs of students pursue higher education in countries like the USA, Canada, the UK, Australia, Singapore, New Zealand, and Ireland. Our acquisition in Planet Education is a strategic step to enter the burgeoning international study tourism, allowing us to offer a seamless, end-to-end experience that integrates both education and travel services for our customers,” said Nishant Pitti, CEO & co-founder, EaseMyTrip.

    “Leveraging Planet Education’s expertise, we aim to simplify the process of visas and documentation for students, making it hassle-free. We see immense potential in Planet Education’s model and are excited to combine our tech-driven capabilities with their expertise to create enhanced value for our valued customers.”

    “[The] proposed alliance would be a perfect synergy for expansion and growth of businesses of both the entities whereby wide network of Planet Education in form of its presence across the country and EaseMyTrip’s presence through its online platform for travel and tourism will be facilitating each other’s line of business and thereby achieving growth in the businesses,” stated Sanket Shah, founder, Planet Education. 

    Meanwhile, Planet Education founder Sanket Shah said the partnership marked “a perfect synergy for expansion” and the growth of both businesses.

    While this marks the first investment by an Indian travel platform in an international education provider, several travel companies over the years have introduced services aimed at India’s growing outbound student population, which is expected to reach 2.5 million by 2030.

    Just last year, BookMyForex, a subsidiary of another leading travel platform MakeMyTrip, launched a promotional campaign offering cashback on forex cards and tuition fee transfers for students planning to study abroad.

    Moreover, in 2023, MakeMyTrip rolled out a series of student-focused collaborations, teaming up with airlines to provide additional baggage allowances and special fares, with banks to extend exclusive credit card discounts on bookings, and with travel accessory brands to offer concessions.

    “We are delighted that this integrated offering will lead to economy and convenience for the student cohort travelling abroad, especially to destinations such as the USA, Canada, Europe, the United Kingdom, Australia, and New Zealand,” stated Saujanya Shrivastava, COO, Flights, Holidays, and Gulf Cooperation Council, MakeMyTrip.

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  • BPP Education Group expands portfolio with acquisition of Sprott Shaw College

    BPP Education Group expands portfolio with acquisition of Sprott Shaw College

    BPP Education Group’s growth plan has been backed by the private equity firm TDR Capital, with a view to expand geographically into various sites around the world.

    The group, which provides education and training in various fields of work like Law and Finance, hopes to increase the variety of ITS portfolio of courses through the acquisition of dynamic education businesses like Sprott Shaw College.

    Sprott Shaw College (SSC), founded in 1903, is one of the largest regulated career colleges IN Canada and offers students connections with real-word opportunities to ready them for work in positions such as nursing and business.

    Prior to the deal, it was a subsidiary of Global Education Communities Corporation (GECC), which is one of the largest education and student housing investment companies in Canada.

    The college also places a large focus on cultural awareness and inclusivity – and its courses are designed with these in mind.

    According to Graham Gaddes, CEO of BPP, the acquisition marks an “important milestone into BPP’s internationalisation”.

    “The acquisition will support SSC’s plans to continue to be agile in meeting the needs of the domestic and international community, with programmes developed with cultural awareness and inclusivity in mind,” he added. “We admire what Sprott Shaw College has achieved to date and look forward to welcoming the team to the BPP Education Group.”

    The college has grown substantially in size with integrity and has gained respect from the global education community
    Toby Chu, GECC

    This purchase opens doorways for BPP to offer a vast range of professional education programs due to an alignment with other institutions in its portfolio, such as Ascenda School of Management and Arbutus College.

    The programs would range from certificates to degree levels, which would aid both domestic and international students.

    Toby Chu, president and CEO of GECC, said that he is “confident that Sprott Shaw College will continue to flourish under BPP’s ownership”.

    The college had weathered many difficulties in recent years, he said, including the Covid-19 pandemic and more recent study permit caps in Canada.

    “Despite these challenges, the college has grown substantially in size with integrity and has gained respect from the global education community. I am confident that Sprott Shaw College will continue to flourish under BPP’s ownership,” he said.

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  • UAE educators undertake specialist training in Russia

    UAE educators undertake specialist training in Russia

    The initiative is part of a larger strategy to build a teaching workforce in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) equipped for the demands of modern education. Organised by the UAE Ministry of Education, it reflects a broader strategic commitment in the country to invest in teaching talent and adopt global best practices in education.

    The program was held in collaboration with the Talent and Success Educational Foundation within the Sirius Federal Territory. It is part of an ongoing partnership that aims to deepen international cooperation in education and expand the professional capabilities of UAE-based educators.

    We value global knowledge exchange and the adoption of innovative, research-driven practices that strengthen our education system
    Sarah Al Amiri, UAE Minister of Education

    The training includes over 60 hours of in-depth instruction focused on modern teaching methodologies, particularly within the STEM fields. Participants are engaged in sessions on activity and project-based learning, educational transitions, and authentic assessment.

    While the identities of the participating educators have not been disclosed, officials say the group was selected through a competitive process targeting high-performing teachers with the potential to transform education in the UAE.

    Through daily workshops and peer exchange sessions, educators are also encouraged to share experiences and reflect on best practices from diverse educational settings.

    Sarah Al Amiri, the UAE’s minister of education, emphasised that the program aligns with the Ministry’s vision of developing a forward-looking education system.

    “As the world continues to evolve, we remain committed to equipping our educators with the tools they need to create future-ready learning experiences,” she noted. “We value global knowledge exchange and the adoption of innovative, research-driven practices that strengthen our education system.”

    By embedding international standards into local practice, the Ministry aims to enhance the UAE’s educational competitiveness while responding to the country’s specific needs and aspirations. In recent years, it has placed an increasing focus on educators’ mobility and professional development through international partnerships.

    The UAE’s engagement with institutions like Sirius reflects a wider regional trend of forging global partnerships to enhance workforce capacity and education systems.

    As the sector in the MENA region becomes more globally interconnected, such initiatives are expected to play a critical role in shaping longterm reforms.

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  • How will the India-UK Vision 2035 impact education?

    How will the India-UK Vision 2035 impact education?

    The India–United Kingdom Comprehensive Economic and Trade Agreement (CETA), negotiations for which began in January 2022, was finalised on July 24, with UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi calling it a ‘step-change’ in bilateral relations. 

    While the trade deal covers a wide range of areas, including tariff reductions, market access, mobility, and investment protection, aimed at delivering a £4.8bn annual boost to the UK economy and an estimated USD $9-10bn in export growth, the two Prime Ministers also endorsed the India-UK Vision 2035, “reaffirming their shared commitment to unlocking the full potential of a revitalised partnership”.

    Although technology, innovation, defence, and climate action are key pillars of India-UK cooperation under the Vision 2035 framework, education remains central to the shared goal of developing a skilled, future-ready talent pool to tackle global challenges and drive a sustainable future, according to a policy statement released alongside the FTA signing.

    In a first, both countries are launching an annual ministerial India-UK Education Dialogue, which will include reviews of mutually recognised qualifications and knowledge-sharing through joint participation in platforms such as the UK’s Education World Forum and India’s National Education Policy initiatives. 

    The launch of the ministerial dialogue also comes as UK universities increasingly recognise the potential of establishing academic and research-focused branch campuses in India.

    Just this Tuesday, the University of Bristol joined a growing list of UK institutions that have received approval to open campuses in India under the University Grants Commission’s Foreign Higher Educational Institutions (FHEI) regulations.

    Bristol’s Mumbai campus, slated to launch in Summer 2026, will offer undergraduate and postgraduate programs in data science, economics, finance and investment, immersive arts, and financial technology.

    Once operational, Bristol, ranked 51st globally, will become the highest-ranked British university to establish a campus in India, surpassing the University of Southampton, which launched its Gurugram campus earlier this month with classes beginning this August.

    Though Modi has welcomed the establishment of British campuses in India, calling it a “new chapter in the education sector of both countries”, some UK universities are facing flak at home “for seeking fortunes in India” amid ongoing financial woes and domestic job cuts.

    However, with universities like Bristol positioning their India campus as a hub for students, researchers, and industry to shape a better future, the Vision 2035 framework also underscores the India-UK Green Skills Partnership, an initiative focused on equipping young people in both countries with future-ready skills.

    The partnership aims to bridge skill gaps and enable joint initiatives, such as centres of excellence, climate-focused ventures, and courses and certifications in areas such as sustainability. 

    Moreover, the Vision 2035 framework also “encourages exchange and understanding among youth and students” to strengthen the success of existing initiatives like the Young Professionals Scheme (YPS) and the Study India Programme.

    While the YPS, launched in February 2023, is designed as a reciprocal visa scheme enabling British and Indian citizens aged 18-30 to live, work, travel, and study in each other’s country for up to two years, it has so far been largely one-sided. 

    Over 2,100 visas were issued to Indian nationals in 2023, while no such data is available for UK nationals going to India – suggesting participation has been minimal.

    But on the educational front, with UK universities setting up campuses in India and more exchange opportunities emerging, British students may also be encouraged to study in the South Asian country, Alison Barrett, country director India at the British Council, said in a recent interview with Financial Express.

    Once the FTA is ratified, the responsibility will shift to business organisations, institutions, and industry leaders to bring it to life
    Amarjit Singh, India Business Group

    Furthermore, a recent article by Bhawna Kumar, Acumen’s director of TNE and institutional partnerships, and Nikunj Agarwal, the company’s consultant in research and TNE, highlighted the pivotal role of India’s National Education Policy in shaping the FTA and the Vision 2035. 

    “Chapter 8B of the FTA (UK Schedule of Commitments) places no restriction on UK providers offering higher education services (CPC 923) in India. This opens doors for UK universities to expand through various TNE models such as joint degrees, dual degrees, and campus partnerships,” they noted, citing the example of University of Birmingham’s joint master’s programs with IIT Madras in Data Science and Artificial Intelligence, and Sustainable Energy Systems, as a key example. 

    “Chapter 14 of the FTA aligns closely, promoting joint R&D, researcher exchanges, and institutional partnerships in areas like digital innovation, clean energy, agriculture, and healthcare mirroring NEP’s multidisciplinary agenda,” they added. 

    While the Vision 2035 framework appears robust on paper, the authors point out several implementation challenges that remain pressing, chief among them being regulatory alignment, visa bottlenecks, and the slow pace of progress on mutual recognition agreements. 

    “Establishing a Joint Education and Skills Council, co-chaired by senior officials from both countries, would institutionalise cooperation, monitor delivery, and resolve bottlenecks in real time,” they suggested. 

    While the trade deal does not explicitly mention international students, CETA is expected to broaden “high-quality employment pathways” for young Indians by easing access to the services market and facilitating short-term mobility for skilled talent across sectors such as IT, healthcare, finance, and the creative industries. 

    Each year, up to 1,800 Indian chefs, yoga instructors, and classical musicians would be able to work in the UK temporarily under CETA. 

    Additionally, Indian workers will benefit from the Double Contribution Convention (DCC), which will exempt them and their employers from UK National Insurance contributions for up to three years.

    Will CETA stand the test of time in delivering benefits to students and professionals? Amarjit Singh, CEO, India Business Group, believes it can but only with a collaborative approach to ensure its long-term success.

    “The UK-India partnership is respected across party lines. While the 2030 Roadmap was negotiated last year, the framework has been in the making for nearly a decade. There is broad consensus not to jeopardize this progress,” Singh told The PIE News. 

    Though CETA has been signed by both countries, it still requires ratification by their respective parliaments, a process expected to take another six to 12 months.

    “Once the FTA is ratified, the responsibility will shift to business organisations, institutions, and industry leaders to bring it to life. That’s where we need more awareness, active engagement, and a bit of hand-holding to realise its full potential.” 

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  • KEDGE to launch associated campus in India

    KEDGE to launch associated campus in India

    The new associated campus, which is being launched in collaboration with Vijaybhoomi University in Karjat, a town near Mumbai, and its business education arm, the Jagdish Sheth School of Management, will initially offer a bachelor in business administration program starting September 2025.

    The collaboration with Vijaybhoomi aligns perfectly with our vision to nurture global leaders with a strong foundation in innovation and ethics
    Alexandre de Navailles, KEDGE

    To be eligible for the undergraduate program, students must have completed or be currently enrolled in grade 12, India’s equivalent of the final year of high school, and either have a minimum SAT score of 1300 or pass KEDGE’s internal entrance exam.

    “In line with its mission to educate future leaders in their local contexts, KEDGE already operates associated campuses in Abidjan and Dakar (Africa), as well as in Shanghai and Suzhou (China),” read a statement by the grande école. 

    “This new strategic partnership in South Asia, established with Vijaybhoomi University and its JAGSoM Business School, will enable the joint development of innovative programmes. These will combine KEDGE’s academic expertise with the evolving needs of the Indian market in areas such as sustainable management, the creative industries, sport, entrepreneurship and innovation.” 

    As its associated campus prepares to introduce a BBA program within the next two months, KEDGE’s collaboration with Vijaybhoomi University will also lead to the launch of several master of science programs in areas such as sports management, arts and creative industries, sustainable transformation, luxury management, entrepreneurship and innovation, and design.

    These programs are expected to launch in September 2026 and will be delivered at the Vijaybhoomi University campus, with select modules featuring remote lectures from KEDGE faculty based in France.

    According to a report by Careers360, an executive MBA and a PhD program tailored for working professionals are also expected to be introduced in the coming years.

    Moreover, a dedicated India operations team appointed by KEDGE will oversee all academic affairs related to the associated campus.

    “This partnership is a testament to KEDGE’s mission to extend its global footprint and bring top-tier education closer to students worldwide. The collaboration with Vijaybhoomi aligns perfectly with our vision to nurture global leaders with a strong foundation in innovation and ethics,” stated Alexandre de Navailles, general manager, KEDGE. 

    KEDGE’s India plans build on the success of its ventures in other parts of Asia and Africa.

     In China, the school has established two Franco-Chinese institutes – both recognised by the Chinese Ministry of Education – focused on art, design management, humanities, and social sciences, together welcoming over 300 high-potential Chinese students each year.

    Meanwhile in Africa, its Dakar campus in Senegal, operational since 2008, offers bachelor’s and master’s programs in management along with executive education. The Abidjan campus in Côte d’Ivoire, launched in 2020, reflects the school’s ambition to grow its footprint across the continent.

    Though French institutions have previously been encouraged to establish fully fledged campuses in India, Campus France has been actively exploring joint campus opportunities, a focus highlighted during The PIE Live India 2025.

    Moreover, it’s not just KEDGE, ranked among the top 10 business schools in France, that is expanding its presence. 

    ESCP, another leading French business school, has partnered with IIT Bombay and IIT Madras to facilitate student and faculty exchanges, joint research, and the integration of emerging technologies in sustainability, entrepreneurship, and AI.

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