Dharmendra Pradhan delivers plenary speech at Australian International Education Conference

NEW DELHI: The union minister for education, Dharmendra Pradhan, delivered the plenary speech at the Australian International Education Conference (AIEC) in Melbourne, on October 23. Pradhan also held a bilateral meeting with his counterpart, Jason Clare MP, the education minister of Australia.

Other members of the Indian delegation, heads of the universities of both countries and other dignitaries were also present at the event.

Pradhan during his speech commended the evolving partnership of India and Australia that ties the history of the two countries and will also pave the way for a brighter future together. He also reaffirmed the further strengthening of these ties under the visionary leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Prime Minister of Australia Anthony Albanese.

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Pradhan’s speech on National Education Policy (NEP)

Pradhan highlighted that in the 4th Industrial Revolution, education must prepare students to be creators and managers of technology. He further adds that India’s National Education Policy (NEP) provides a framework emphasising digital literacy, soft skills, critical thinking, and interdisciplinary studies to adapt to evolving job markets.

Pradhan also spoke about how NEP 2020 has transformed India’s learning landscape. The establishment of Australian university campuses in India is just the beginning, with much more potential to be realized, he added.

During Jason Clare MP’s speech, he emphasised on importance of a good education and also commended India’s education system. He mentioned how Australian universities like Deakin had been in India for 30 years and now Wollongong has one campus. He expressed his gratitude to Pradhan for encouraging these initiatives.

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Pradhan’s visit to Australian institutes

Pradhan visited South Melbourne Primary School and engaged with young learners. He further explored the school’s innovative approaches to early childhood education. He emphasized how NEP 2020 in India places a strong focus on Early Childhood Care and Education (ECCE), which is essential for a child’s holistic development.

Pradhan also visited the Royal Melbourne Institute of Technology (RMIT) and explored how RMIT can partner and work with top Indian HEIs to equip Indian students with future skills and jobs.

Lastly, Pradhan visited Monash University, which has notably welcomed Indian students since the late 1960s. Pradhan received key insights into the university’s research and innovation ecosystem and their plans to strengthen educational ties with Indian HEIs.