First Foreign University Batch Graduates in GIFT City, Marking Shift in Higher Education

In a development that signals a gradual shift in India’s higher education landscape, Deakin University has graduated the first batch of students from its campus at GIFT City. The ceremony marks the first instance of students completing an international degree programme without leaving the country.

The initiative aligns with the broader framework of the National Education Policy 2020, which encourages the entry of foreign universities into India. Policymakers have argued that such collaborations can expand access to global curricula while reducing the cost burden associated with overseas education.

The GIFT City campus represents an early test case for this policy direction. Courses have been designed to mirror international standards, with an emphasis on industry relevance and research exposure. Officials associated with the programme say student response has been encouraging, particularly among those seeking global qualifications within a domestic setting.

The development is also being watched closely by other foreign institutions exploring a presence in India. If replicated at scale, such models could reshape how Indian students approach higher education, balancing global exposure with local accessibility.