Image Credit: UoH Herald
Hyderabad recently played host to a high-level delegation of 21 German universities, led by vice-chancellors and vice presidents under the German Academic Exchange Service (DAAD). The delegation, which visited the University of Hyderabad (UoH) and the Indian Institute of Technology-Hyderabad (IIT-H), on 18 March, focused on enhancing bilateral partnerships in higher education, research, and student exchange programs.
Key Areas of Cooperation Discussed
During their visit, the delegation explored ways to deepen Indo-German collaboration through joint research projects, faculty and student exchanges, research workshops, virtual brainstorming sessions, and dual-degree programs. Discussions were led by DAAD General Secretary Dr. Kai Sicks, German Consul General in Chennai Kathrin Misera-Lang, and IIT-H Director Prof. B.S. Murty.
Highlighting the growing academic ties between the two nations, Misera-Lang emphasized the potential for deeper cooperation across various disciplines. “India and Germany are strengthening partnerships in multiple fields, and academia is a crucial area with immense opportunities,” she noted.
Prof. Murty described the visit as a “milestone” in Indo-German educational collaboration, stating that global partnerships drive innovation and academic excellence.
University of Hyderabad Strengthens Global Ties
At UoH, the delegation examined research collaboration opportunities, joint degree programs, and funding models for student and faculty exchanges. The visitors toured key research facilities, including Aspire BioNest, the School of Life Sciences, the School of Engineering Sciences and Technology, and the Centre for Earth, Ocean, and Atmospheric Sciences.
UoH Vice-Chancellor Prof. B.J. Rao highlighted the university’s commitment to international education, stating that “collaborative education and joint degrees are becoming increasingly important in the current regulatory landscape.”
Prof. Brahmanandam Manavathi, Director of the Office for International Affairs at UoH, presented the university’s long-standing internationalization efforts, noting that the “Study in India” program started in 1998 with just eight students and has since expanded significantly.
DAAD Highlights Germany’s Growing Indian Student Community
DAAD Secretary General Dr. Kai Sicks shared insights into the rising number of Indian students in Germany, revealing that the number has surged from 6,000 a decade ago to approximately 50,000 today. He stressed Germany’s commitment to supporting international education, with over 140,000 students—both German and international—receiving funding in 2023 through DAAD programs, backed by the German Federal Foreign Office, the European Union, and other organizations.
“Education and research funding is considered an investment, especially in strengthening Indo-German ties,” Dr. Sicks remarked.
Overcoming Challenges in Indo-German Higher Education Partnerships
While both countries see great potential in academic collaboration, Dr. Sicks acknowledged the complexities of India’s higher education system, particularly the vast number of institutions and regulatory frameworks. However, he remained optimistic about future partnerships, emphasizing that the focus remains firmly on India.
The German Indian Academic Network for Tomorrow (SPARC-GIANT) was highlighted as a key initiative promoting research collaboration in sustainability, mobility, manufacturing, and industry.
Next Steps: Strengthening Research and Exchange Programs
The visiting delegation will now assess specific areas for future collaboration, including dual-degree programs, exchange initiatives, and new research partnerships.
The tour, part of DAAD’s seven-day higher education policy visit to India, began in Hyderabad and will conclude in Delhi with an education fair later this week.
With Germany and India reinforcing their educational ties, students and researchers from both nations stand to benefit from enhanced academic exchanges and joint research efforts in the coming years.
