Australia’s Deakin University is the first international university to establish a teaching campus in India and has now officially welcomed the first students to masters courses in cyber security and business analytics.

“Today, we fulfil our promise to India as our GIFT City campus comes to life with students,” said Iain Martin, Deakin’s vice chancellor on the momentous occasion.

“This ambitious project, conceived less than two years ago, has resulted in a fully operational Deakin teaching campus – a world first.

“Deakin’s commitment has always been ‘in India, with India, for India.’ This is our proudest moment in the Deakin-India story, marking a historic milestone in our 30-year relationship.”

“Our commitment to delivering future-ready education is taken very seriously at Deakin,” continued Martin.

According to Martin, close work with local industry and businesses will continue in a bid to forge strong and meaningful partnerships for students, helping them to establish networks with some of the world’s top organisations and employers.

Ravneet Pawha, Deakin vice president (global alliances) & CEO (South Asia) emphasised the importance of this occasion for the India-Australia partnership.

“This campus defines a new India and what is possible with great friendships and partnerships. We are introducing new ways of learning, thinking, and responding to industry needs, providing work-ready students capable of meeting the demands of a new corporate landscape.

“We are actively developing content and programs in response to industry feedback, ensuring our students are among the most sought-after graduates globally.”

In a statement, the university said that the campus has received registrations and expressions of interest in thousands from prospective students.

Breaking down where the initial enrolments come from, the university said the the largest numbers are from the state of Gujarat itself, very closely followed by Maharashtra and New Delhi.

Among the “biggest motivators” for students enrolling is the access to an international university and having a degree in an emerging field endorsed by a reputed international university with a clear specialisation in the field.

Lower fees and the possibility of graduating with an international degree without the cost and hassle of relocating and settling abroad have also been huge draw for students, the university said in a statement.

Being part of history as one of the first students at GIFT City and gaining an internationally recognised degree in India is a unique opportunity

Akshita Karlapati, Deakin GIFT City student

“Being part of history as one of the first students at GIFT City and gaining an internationally recognised degree in India is a unique opportunity,” said first-cohort student Akshita Karlapati.

“The education I receive and connections I make at Deakin GIFT City will open doors globally, helping me achieve my dream of becoming a business analyst.”

Through the Deakin University and GIFT City Scholarship Program 2024, two students have been offered fully-funded scholarships covering tuition and living expenses.

“Receiving the scholarship is an overwhelming and gratifying experience,” said scholarship recipient Bhavika Khotani, who is studying towards a master of business analytics.

“It allows me to concentrate fully on my studies without the stress of financial constraints. I am confident that Deakin will provide me with the knowledge and networking opportunities essential for my future professional success.”