The India Didactics Association is currently hosting a three-day education fair, Didac India, commencing on Wednesday, while the Asian Summit on Education and Skills (ASES) took place in Bengaluru on Tuesday. However, experts note that despite these initiatives, several proposals and plans by foreign universities to establish a presence in India are facing significant challenges.
Officials state that the education fair aims to enhance and elevate the quality of education through collaborative efforts and idea exchange sessions. While the impact of Covid-19 is acknowledged as a factor hindering the growth of the education sector, representatives from foreign universities and education departments of various countries highlight technical and social issues as additional obstacles preventing the realization of their plans in India.
Dr. Adel Hamad Alzenedy, the vice-governor for Technical and Vocational Training Corporation in Saudi Arabia, cites difficulties related to visa rules, stating that lengthy visa processing times (three to four weeks) impede frequent visits to India. He emphasizes the need for collaboration with IIT Delhi to introduce Artificial Intelligence programs and other advanced curricula.
John Gwyn Jones, CEO of the Federation of British International Schools in Asia, observes limited penetration of British institutions in India due to fierce competition from local counterparts. Jones suggests introducing the British curriculum model, the International Primary Curriculum, to make learning more integrated and engaging.
A senior British official expresses concerns about challenges in collaborating with India on curriculum aspects, citing the call for ‘decolonizing’ Indian textbooks and the perception of foreign universities as threats by public institutions.
Despite these challenges, the British Council notes interest from institutions like Kings College London, University of Birmingham, and University of Cambridge in collaborating with Indian education institutions for faculty exchange and student-centric programs.
The ongoing Didac India, in its 12th edition, hosted by the higher education department of Karnataka, showcases innovative solutions for the education and skill sectors. Over 200 exhibitors from 20 countries, including major companies like Microsoft, Amazon, and Samsung, are participating. The expo is attended by education ministers from various countries and Indian states, and discussions include opportunities for collaboration, curriculum redesign, digitization of education, and legislation for foreign universities to set up campuses in India.