Deakin University International Branch Campus at GIFT City, Gujarat

In a historic move that showcases innovation, education, and collaboration, Deakin University has become the first foreign educational institution to establish an International Branch Campus (IBC) in India's GIFT City, located in Gujarat. The launch of this project unfolded amidst an esteemed Australian delegation led by the Hon Anthony Albanese MP, Prime Minister of Australia, His Excellency Shri Acharya Devvrat, Governor of Gujarat, the Hon Shri Bhupendra Patel, Chief Minister of Gujarat, and the Hon Barry O’Farrell, Australia’s High Commissioner to India, among other distinguished dignitaries, on March 8, 2023, at the esteemed ITC Narmada in Ahmedabad.

The plan for the International Branch Campus of Deakin University was developed by India's Union Education Minister and Union Finance Minister, who made it public through the Union Budget release in February 2022. The abroad Financial Services Centres Authority (IFSCA) sped up the process of developing comprehensive regulations for overseas branch campuses, fast transforming the idea into reality. Deakin University was able to get clearance in a record-breaking period of time; the proposal was submitted on February 28, 2023, and in-principle approval was provided on March 2, 2023.

Artist Impression of the Campus

The core purpose of this ground-breaking campus is to provide postgraduate students with the fundamental know-how and abilities needed to thrive in the developing digital economy, both in India and globally. In line with this ambitious goal, Deakin University is introducing two postgraduate courses at its International Branch Campus within GIFT City: the Professional Master's in Cybersecurity and the Master's in Business Analytics, each accommodating 60 students.

By cultivating graduates who are equipped to succeed in the fast-paced fields of technology and business, these programmes seek to close the gap between academia and industry. Fueled by cutting-edge technology, the forthcoming campus promises to redefine the dynamics of university-industry collaboration, shaping the trajectory of future work. Its pivotal role in GIFT City's mission aligns seamlessly with the government's vision of producing a stream of job-ready graduates, primed to make their mark in the fast-paced world of technology and business.

As a pioneering business model and maiden venture executed in India, the Deakin University International Branch Campus is currently undergoing rapid development. Continual announcements and updates keep stakeholders informed and engaged as the campus operations take tangible form. Earning significant attention from academia and industry alike, the project's backing by the Government of India fortifies its trajectory toward operational commencement in the academic year of 2024.

Staying true to its timeline and commitment to elevate educational standards within India, the project has already made substantial strides. A dedicated team of professionals from Deakin University, in collaboration with the GIFT City team, is tirelessly working to create an exceptional infrastructure that combines innovation and functionality, providing an optimal environment for learning, working, and networking.

Spanning a vast expanse of 25,000 square feet, the Deakin IBC is strategically designed to foster an integrated academic and business ecosystem. While the ground floor would have dedicated spaces for industry partners, start-ups and entrepreneurs, the top floor would be the dedicated university campus with learning spaces.

Artist Impression of the Campus

This design facilitates invaluable industry interactions and networking opportunities for students, enabling them to establish vital connections with potential employers and industry cohorts. Moreover, it paves the way for cornerstone elements of the program, such as cadetships and research projects, which empower students to cultivate a competitive knowledge base through robust industrial alliances.

Deakin University's pledge to uphold accessible education for Indian students is reflected in its fee structure. The institution is resolutely determined to keep course fees competitive and has ensured that the fee for these programs is set at a reduced rate. Additionally, Deakin University will offer 50% bursaries to deserving students, further fostering a nurturing environment for educational and professional growth.

Deakin University is also gearing up to initiate the recruitment of administrative and academic staff. Simultaneously, the university is preparing to release comprehensive guidelines for course applications and enrollment at the Deakin University International Branch Campus.

This state-of-the-art university promises to help students acquire the skills, opportunities, and information required to succeed in the quickly developing fields of business and technology. It is comparable to the results of teamwork. Because of its strong government backing, cutting-edge concepts, and open access for all, the Deakin University International Branch Campus is well-positioned to have a substantial impact on education globally, not just in India.

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