Germany’s Ambassador to India and Bhutan, Dr. Philipp Ackermann, has emphasized the deepening academic collaboration between the two countries, noting that nearly 50,000 Indian students are currently enrolled in German universities—the largest foreign student group in the country.
Dr. Ackermann made these remarks at an event in New Delhi celebrating 65 years of the German Academic Exchange Service (DAAD) in India and DAAD’s century-long commitment to fostering international academic cooperation. The event underscored the accelerating educational exchange between India and Germany, driven by mutual interest in science, research, and innovation.
“The partnership between India and Germany in science and education is stronger than ever and forms a crucial foundation of our bilateral relations,” Dr. Ackermann stated, highlighting the significant contributions of Indian researchers to Germany’s academic landscape.
Growing University Collaborations and Research Initiatives
As India seeks to strengthen its ties with Germany in higher education and research, over 80 German universities and research institutions are actively engaging in initiatives aimed at expanding academic and research partnerships. These collaborations come at a time when India’s education and research sectors are experiencing rapid growth, opening doors for increased bilateral cooperation.
One of the key highlights of these engagements is the visit of 20 senior representatives from leading German universities to Hyderabad and New Delhi between March 16-22. The delegation is focusing on enhancing institutional partnerships and identifying new areas for collaboration with Indian universities and research institutions.
Parallelly, in Coimbatore, representatives from Germany’s Universities of Applied Sciences attended the inauguration of the German School of Technology at PSG College of Technology. Supported financially by DAAD, this initiative marks a significant milestone in Indo-German academic relations, particularly in the fields of engineering and technology.
“This new academic venture will serve as a model of innovation and collaboration, fostering future generations of students and researchers,” the DAAD Regional Office in New Delhi stated.
DAAD Unveils Strategy to Strengthen Academic Ties
To further solidify Indo-German academic relations, DAAD has released a strategy paper outlining its vision for enhanced cooperation. The document details potential areas of scientific exchange and provides actionable recommendations for German universities to foster closer engagement with Indian institutions.
Prof. Dr. Joybrato Mukherjee, President of DAAD, emphasized the growing importance of India as a global leader in science and innovation.
“With its rapidly evolving higher education sector, India offers immense opportunities for collaboration—from student mobility to joint research initiatives and skilled workforce development,” Mukherjee stated.
Major Conferences and Forums to Boost Bilateral Cooperation
A significant milestone in this academic engagement is the Indo-German Forum: Research, Innovation, and Transfer, set to convene 250 representatives from higher education and research institutions of both nations. Organized by the German House for Research and Innovation (DWIH), New Delhi, and the DAAD Regional Office, this forum aims to reinforce academic and research cooperation while identifying new opportunities in education and technological advancement.
Additionally, the DAAD will mark its centennial celebrations alongside 65 years of its presence in India. Katja Lasch, Director of DAAD Regional Office, New Delhi, emphasized the growing interest in Indo-German academic partnerships.
“With over 80 German universities participating in India this March, these events highlight our commitment to strengthening educational and research ties,” she noted.
Looking ahead, the AIE Conference 2025, scheduled for March 25-27 in New Delhi, will feature a strong presence from DAAD, with over 70 German universities participating in the German pavilion and engaging with Indian institutions.
The recent developments signify Germany’s sustained commitment to expanding its academic and research collaboration with India, reinforcing a long-standing partnership that continues to evolve dynamically.
