India and Germany launched a comprehensive higher education roadmap Monday, marking a significant expansion of cooperation in education, skilling, and student mobility. Prime Minister Narendra Modi invited top German universities to establish campuses in India under the National Education Policy (NEP 2020).
The announcement occurred during Federal Chancellor Friedrich Merz’s official visit to India. Both nations also signed a joint declaration of intent to create an Indo-German Centre of Excellence for Skilling in Renewable Energy.
Higher Education Cooperation and University Campuses
Leaders from both countries officially welcomed the ‘Indo-German Comprehensive Roadmap on Higher Education’. This roadmap serves as a framework to strengthen cooperation between Indian and German educational institutions.
Prime Minister Modi urged leading German universities to consider setting up campuses in India. This invitation aims to deepen academic ties, aligning with the objectives of India’s National Education Policy 2020.
The University Grants Commission (UGC) has already issued Letters of Intent to 12 foreign universities. These approvals pave the way for these institutions to establish campuses across India.
Planned Foreign University Campuses in India
| City | Number of Campuses |
|---|---|
| Mumbai | 6 |
| Bengaluru | 2 |
| Gurugram | 1 |
| Delhi-NCR | 1 |
| Greater Noida | 1 |
| Chennai | 1 |
Skilling Initiatives and Student Mobility
The signed joint declaration of intent formalizes the establishment of an Indo-German Centre of Excellence for Skilling in Renewable Energy. This center will develop relevant courses, collaborate with industries, and train instructors. Its programs will cater to both the Indian and German job markets.
India and Germany also agreed to increase German language teaching. This expansion targets schools, universities, and vocational training centers throughout India, aiming to strengthen cultural and educational connections.
The two countries stressed the need for enhanced people-to-people exchanges. This includes creating more opportunities for students, researchers, skilled workers, artists, and youth to move between India and Germany, according to the official joint statement.
The joint statement acknowledged a growing number of Indian students pursuing studies in Germany. It also highlighted the expanding network of academic collaborations and dual degree programs already existing between Indian and German educational institutions.