Indian Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan was warmly welcomed in Melbourne during his visit to Australia, focused on bolstering educational collaboration between the two nations.
At a reception hosted by the Indian community, Pradhan expressed his gratitude, emphasising the role of the Indian diaspora in fostering cross-cultural exchanges.
“Our diaspora are the biggest ambassadors of Bharat’s civilisation. Our civilisational values and knowledge can offer solutions to global challenges.”
Pradhan also stressed the importance of knowledge partnerships in addressing global issues.
Pradhan highlighted India’s dedication to enhancing ties in areas such as university linkages, research, skilling, and student exchange programmes. He noted,
“Knowledge collaborations will be the cornerstone of India-Australia friendship, addressing mutual priorities through education.”
The visit included joint tours with Australian Education Minister Jason Clare to key educational institutions like RMIT and Monash University, where they explored cutting-edge technologies. They also visited South Melbourne Primary School, renowned for its evidence-based teaching practices.
Welcoming Pradhan, Clare stated, “Dharmendra, welcome back. It is an honour to host you here again in Australia, and we are all looking forward to hearing from you.”
Clare praised Pradhan’s transformative efforts in India’s education sector, particularly India’s bold target to enrol half of its youth in higher education or vocational training within the next decade. He noted the potential impact, predicting that by 2035, one in four university graduates globally could be from India.
Both ministers will continue their dialogue at the Australia-India Education and Skills Council (AIESC) meeting in Sydney. Clare also discussed Australia’s international education sector, addressing challenges related to post-pandemic migration policies and new student enrolment caps aimed at restoring balance.
Reflecting on their shared goals, Clare added,
“A good education makes everything possible. It’s not just about students coming here, but also about us going to them. It’s a partnership that changes lives, changes nations, and strengthens the enduring bond between Australia and India.”
Pradhan, Clare, and Minister Andrew Giles also participated in a dinner hosted by the Hindu Council of Australia, celebrating the growing collaboration between the two countries in education and skills. Pradhan praised the council for promoting the Indian ethos of ‘Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam’ (the world is one family) and for keeping Sanatan culture and traditions alive in Australia.
The following day, the ministers attended the 2nd Australia-India Education and Skills Council meeting in Sydney. Pradhan noted,
“The AIESC meeting has emerged as a key platform for building stronger knowledge bridges, advancing mutual priorities in education and skilling, and envisioning a brighter future for both Australia and India.”
Pradhan emphasised the role of education and skills as the driving force for economic prosperity and deeper connections between people and institutions.
Jason Clare echoed this sentiment, saying,
“International education is a two-way street. It’s about international students coming to Australia and Australian institutions going to the world.”
Clare also highlighted discussions with members of the Innovative Research Universities exploring options for a consortium campus in India.
As discussions progressed, both sides agreed to continue building on the momentum, with plans for the next AIESC meeting to take place in India in 2025. This ongoing collaboration promises to pave the way for a stronger, more dynamic educational partnership between Australia and India.
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