Lancaster University has announced it has taken a step closer to opening a new branch campus in Bengaluru, India.
The news comes as Lancaster University formed part of a UK delegation of 125 UK CEOs, entrepreneurs, university and cultural leaders led by Prime Minister Keir Starmer, who joined with India’s Prime Minister Narendra Modi in talks exploring the India-UK Comprehensive Strategic Partnership as part of a two-day trade mission to Mumbai.
Lancaster was among the 14 university representatives joining the delegation in recognition of the increase in demand for higher education in India – with 70 million places needed by 2035.
As a UK top ten university, with partnerships spanning Asia, Europe, and Africa, Lancaster has built a trusted global network that delivers world-class education and research opportunities beyond the UK.
From Germany and Ghana, to China, Malaysia and Indonesia, Lancaster has demonstrated the ability to bring international education within reach of international communities, embedding its ethos of the highest quality education and research, consistent with the University’s commitment to excellence and equality.
India's University Grants Commission has granted permission to progress with proposals to the next stage, meaning the city of Bengaluru in Karnataka State in South India could soon be welcomed into the University’s campus community.
Following the public announcement of a successful application for a ‘Letter of Intent’ in a special ceremony in India this week, the University will seek to create study and research opportunities by supporting local partners and fostering shared innovation.
Although this is just the first step towards opening the doors to students in one of India’s largest cities, initial programmes are likely to focus on business, management and computing with potential for expansion into a broader offer of disciplines.
The new branch campus will be designed to appeal to students keen to obtain a UK university degree, but who wish to study in India.
Professor Simon Guy, Pro-Vice-Chancellor Global at Lancaster University, said: "Lancaster has always believed in the power of education to transform lives. As a research-intensive University and a sector leader in Transnational Education, we are boldly and purposefully outward looking in our ethos and approach, committed to building academic bridges across the world to make a positive impact.
“By opening a branch campus in the city of Bengaluru, a vibrant hub of technology, education, and enterprise, Lancaster University aims to partner with Indian businesses, industry and local Universities to collaboratively spark growth, generate opportunity, and ensure above all that Lancaster University students across the globe are empowered to succeed and to make a difference to India and the world.”
Prime Minister Keir Starmer said: “Our great British universities are admired all over the world for their teaching excellence, high-quality research and commitment to innovation.
“I’m delighted that more Indian students will be able to benefit from a world-class British education in the near future - strengthening the ties between our two countries while pumping millions back into our economy and supporting jobs at home.”
Alison Barrett MBE, Country Director India, British Council said: “Heartiest congratulations to the University of Lancaster on receiving the letter of intent from the University Grants Commission to launch its International Branch Campus in Bengaluru, India.
‘’This is yet another example of how the National Education Policy 2020 has opened new opportunities for internationalisation. This milestone underscores the UK’s dedication to delivering learner-centred, interdisciplinary, and inclusive education, aligned with the India-UK Vision 2035.
‘’Lancaster’s strengths in management, social sciences, and environmental research will surely be a valuable addition to Indian education system and will open new pathways for students.”
Man accused of stealing joints of meat at Lancaster Asda by hiding them in his trousers
LISTEN and PHOTOS: Spectacular display of 12,000 poppies unveiled at Lancaster landmark
Eden Project Morecambe boss gives update on early stages of work on new £100m attraction
Lancaster, Morecambe and Carnforth Remembrance services announced
Road closures for pre-Tour de France work announced for Lancaster district
Lancaster rock guitarist braves beard shave for charity
Two arrests made after post office robbery in Lancaster
BBC Philharmonic Orchestra to perform concert for schools at Morecambe Winter Gardens
PHOTOS: Plans go in for major Lancaster regeneration scheme
Lancaster music venue's heartfelt message ahead of final night on New Year's Eve
Morecambe school named among one of England's most improved for attendance
Lancaster hospital nursing boss appointed to University of Cumbria honorary role
Morecambe Football Club placed under another embargo by the National League
£1.5m Lancaster scheme to boost water quality in River Lune is complete
Family pays tribute to Lancaster pensioner who died in road crash
Popular artist's print of Morecambe Bay Academy to be launched at alumni evening
Work set to begin on new Heysham skate park
Light Up Lancaster promises to illuminate city with ‘No Boundaries’
Sadness as Morecambe sports and social club suffers break-in on night of reopening
Man arrested after death of pensioner in Lancaster road crash
