UGC tells universities to set up offices to attract foreign students

NEW DELHI: The University Grants Commission (UGC) has asked all the universities to establish an ‘office for international affairs’ to promote India as a global study destination as envisioned in the new National Education Policy (NEP) 2020.

The apex higher education regulator has also asked universities to share relevant information regarding the establishment of the office by February 15, 2021. The NEP 2020 has emphasized expanding the reach of Indian higher education and encourages collaborations with foreign institutions, says the UGC letter.

Apart from supporting foreing students in India, the office will also work on attracting foreign students to Indian campuses by engaging in "brand-building" abroad.

UGC: 'Brand-building abroad'

The ministry of education is also promoting the 'Study In India' initiative to attract foreign students to India. As per the UGC, the international affairs office will undertake various activities like welcoming and supporting foreign students and disseminating information related to the admission process among prospective students.

“To engage in promotional activities and brand building campaigns abroad. Single point contact for carrying out all collaborative activities with foreign institutions and act as a liaison body between the foreign students and the sponsoring agency,” reads the UGC letter.

The said body will also address the grievances of foreign students in all matters and help facilitate networking with fellow students along with extending all possible help to the foreign students to adapt to the new cultural environment and make their stay in India comfortable and enriching.

The prime minister, Narendra Modi, during his recent speech at the valedictory function of 2nd National Youth Parliament Festival also said that an environment is being created to encourage youth who were going abroad to remain.