University of Aberdeen Mumbai appoints founding leadership, opens inaugural batch admissions

The University of Aberdeen Mumbai has appointed Marnie Campbell provost and Vinu Chakravarthy, Chief Operating Officer (COO), as it prepares to welcome its inaugural student cohort in September 2026.

The University of Aberdeen has recently received approval from the University Grants Commission (UGC) to establish its Mumbai campus to offer globally-recognised educational programmes in India. The appointments were announced as the university opened applications for its first batch.

The University of Aberdeen Mumbai campus will offer five programmes, including undergraduate degrees in computing, data science and business management, and master's degrees in artificial intelligence and business administration.

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University of Aberdeen Mumbai: Provost, COO highlight plans

Highlighting the significance of the Mumbai campus, Campbell said, “The establishment of the University of Aberdeen Mumbai marks an exciting new chapter in the University's global journey. Together with an exceptional leadership team, we have a unique opportunity to create an inclusive, research-led learning environment that reflects Aberdeen's long-standing tradition of academic excellence while responding to the aspirations of students in India. We look forward to building a campus that empowers students with the knowledge, skills and global perspective needed to succeed in an increasingly interconnected world.”

Speaking on the university's preparations for its inaugural batch, Chakravarthy said, “Joining the University of Aberdeen Mumbai at this pivotal stage is an exciting opportunity to help establish an institution that combines the University's rich academic heritage with a world-class student experience. As we prepare for our inaugural intake, our focus will be on building strong operational foundations, fostering a collaborative campus environment and creating systems that enable students, faculty and staff to thrive. I look forward to working with colleagues across the University to bring Aberdeen's legacy of excellence to India.”

Campbell, a professor, has over 20 years of experience in academic leadership and has worked with leading universities, including Edith Cowan University, Deakin University and the University of Waikato. Vinu Chakravarthy has nearly 20 years of experience in education, campus operations and institutional growth across India and the UAE.

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