NEW DELHI, India – India plans to establish more CBSE schools in Australia. Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan made the announcement on December 8, 2025 . The decision addresses a rising demand from the Indian diaspora residing in Australia. The announcement occurred during the third Australia-India Education and Skills Council (AIESC) meeting, co-chaired with Australian Education Minister Jason Clare.
Expanding Educational Partnership
Both nations agreed to significantly broaden their educational partnership. This expanded scope now encompasses school, skill development, and higher education sectors. Ministers Pradhan and Clare emphasized a shared vision for competence-based education. This approach aims to equip students with practical skills alongside academic knowledge. The goal is to prepare them effectively for future challenges. This comprehensive framework builds upon the existing strong bilateral ties in education.
Minister Pradhan underscored the mutual commitment to advancing educational opportunities. The AIESC meeting provided a key platform to finalize future collaborations and strategic initiatives. The partnership seeks to integrate various educational levels, fostering a more holistic and globally relevant learning environment. Australian Education Minister Clare previously noted that Australia considers India its most extensive and vital education partner, highlighting the depth of this relationship.
New Collaborative Projects and University Presence
India announced the initiation of 10 SPRAC collaborative projects . These projects will engage leading universities from both countries. Their objective is to stimulate joint research, innovation, and academic exchange across diverse fields. Further strengthening academic ties, Minister Pradhan confirmed a Letter of Intent for the University of New South Wales (UNSW). UNSW, recognized as a top-20 global academic institution in QS World University Rankings, will establish a campus in India. This development represents a significant milestone for international higher education within India.
The collaboration extends beyond new school establishments and university campuses. Both countries will work together on several critical educational development areas. Initiatives include improving early childhood care, focusing on foundational learning and holistic development in young children. Teacher competency enhancement forms another pivotal area, aiming to elevate teaching standards and methodologies. Additionally, joint efforts will be made in sports curriculum development, promoting physical literacy and athletic talent from an early age.
Australia’s Perspective on Bilateral Ties
Australian Education Minister Jason Clare expressed strong commendation for the robust bilateral education relationship. Clare highlighted that Australia does not maintain such an extensive education partnership with any other country globally. He presented tangible evidence of this strength. Currently, seven of the 19 foreign universities operating campuses in India are Australian institutions , showcasing a deep engagement.
Minister Clare also offered praise for India’s ambitious National Education Policy (NEP) . He characterized the NEP as an ambitious roadmap designed to transform India’s learning and skills landscape. This international recognition validates India’s efforts to modernize its education system. The policy’s goals align with global best practices for fostering innovation and preparing a future-ready workforce, resonating with Australia’s own educational priorities.
Future Direction for India-Australia Education
The decisions made during the AIESC meeting underscore a firm commitment to deepening the educational relationship. Both India and Australia are dedicated to fostering more profound academic exchanges and skill-based learning initiatives. These collaborative efforts are designed to directly benefit students, educators, and professionals across both nations. The ongoing partnership aims to address contemporary educational needs, promote cross-cultural understanding, and prepare individuals for a globally connected future.