India-New Zealand Education Week, which began on April 17, 2023, aims to promote a discussion on research and encouraging cultural interchange and collaboration in the framework of global education. The education week comprises of a number of exchanges between institutions and academia of New Zealand and India. New Zealand has pledged a contribution of NZ$ 400,000 (approximately Rs 2.1 crore) towards internationalization and student mobility activities, underlining its entire support to India. Pranav Gupta Ashoka University Founder asserts, “Collaboration between New Zealand and India in the field of education can create a unique opportunity for students and institutions of both countries to learn from each other’s strengths and experiences. By sharing knowledge and resources, we can create a dynamic ecosystem that fosters innovation and prepares students to succeed in the global economy. Such tie-ups can also promote cultural exchange and enhance mutual understanding between our two nations, strengthening the bonds of friendship and cooperation.”
This initiative also involves collaboration with the New Zealand Centre at IIT Delhi and involves fellowship grants as well as the resumption of the partial scholarships offered through the New Zealand Excellence Awards (NZEA). NZEA were introduced in 2016 as a special scholarship program accessible to Indian students. Around 200 students from India studying at top-tier institutions in that country have benefitted under this program, which is collaboratively financed by Education New Zealand (ENZ) and 8 universities of New Zealand.
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The intercultural, practical education system in New Zealand gives students the chance to achieve degrees that are industry-ready. India is an allied partner for New Zealand and this agreement strengthens their relationship and participation in research, teaching and fellowships, while opening the door to additional creative endeavors.
Ashoka University Founders share a similar vision of offering a comprehensive curriculum that is liberal and trans-disciplinary. Pranav Gupta highlights how Ashoka began with the same goal and praised New Zealand’s support for experiential education. “It is highly crucial to develop well-rounded individuals who can communicate skillfully, think critically from multiple perspectives, and be leaders who are dedicated to public good. I am impressed by New Zealand’s commitment to quality education and research, and giving our students the opportunities to thrive better by making them career-ready and stand out in an increasingly competitive employment market,” adds Gupta.
When it comes to providing futuristic education, the Economist Intelligence Unit placed New Zealand 3rd globally and 1st among 50 English-speaking nations in 2019. Their university experts are looking for studying the Indian market for further possibilities and joint collaborations. New Zealand is also in talks with the University Grants Commission (UGC) to better comprehend India’s move to permit the foreign universities for setting up branches in the country.
“As our world becomes increasingly interconnected, tie-ups with developed nations such as New Zealand present tremendous opportunities for the growth and evolution of our education system. Partnerships with these nations can bring in new perspectives and innovative teaching methodologies, ultimately enhancing the quality of education we can offer to our students. Furthermore, these partnerships can also open up new avenues for collaborative research and development, creating a virtuous cycle of growth and progress for both our nations. It is only through such bold and forward-looking initiatives that we can create a truly global education system that can equip our students with the skills and knowledge they need to thrive in the 21st century,” states Pranav Gupta of Ashoka University.
