First Overseas Campus of Indian Institute of Foreign Trade (IIFT) to be Set Up in Dubai | Current Affairs | Vision IAS
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First Overseas Campus of Indian Institute of Foreign Trade (IIFT) to be Set Up in Dubai

Posted 17 May 2025

2 min read

This step aligns with the vision of National Education Policy (NEP) 2020, which emphasizes the internationalisation of higher education in India and the creation of global learning hubs.

  • IIFT, a deemed to be university, was established in 1963 as an autonomous body under the Ministry of Commerce & Industry to contribute in the skill building for the external trade sector of India.

About Internationalization of Higher Education in India

  • NEP, 2020 envisages two ways:
    • Indian Higher Education Institutions (HEIs) set up campuses abroad. E.g., IIT Madras has opened a campus in Tanzania.
    • Foreign HEIs set up campuses in India. E.g. Deakin University (from Australia) has opened its first campus in GIFT City, Gujarat.

Significance of Internationalization of HEIs for India

  • Quality of Education & Research: Global collaborations boost research collaboration, patent applications and academic standards via faculty exchange and increased funding.
  • Saving and earning foreign exchange:  As in 2022, nearly 1.3 million Indian students were studying in the USA, Canada, Australia, etc.
  • Employability with Future Skills: Cross-cultural skills and global certifications prepare students for high-demand careers.
  • Soft Power:  Showcasing India’s heritage enhances cultural influence and diplomacy.

Challenges in Internationalization of HEIs

  • Regulatory Barriers: Complex approval processes and restrictions on foreign universities hinder partnerships. E.g., as per a recent report of a Parliamentary panel no top Ivy League Institute has set up its campus in India yet.
  • Cultural and Language Barriers: Lack of diversity training and English proficiency in some institutions affects global integration.
  • Impact on Indian HEIs: Lucrative salaries by foreign HEIs could lead to brain drain of top faculty from Indian HEIs.
  • Tags :
  • National Education Policy (NEP) 2020
  • Indian Institute of Foreign Trade (IIFT)
  • Internationalisation of Education
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