In a major move towards internationalization of Indian higher education, the government has cleared the Indian Institute of Foreign Trade's (IIFT) plan to establish its first off-shore campus at Dubai. The announcement was made on Friday in an official release. The proposal, which has been forwarded by the Ministry of Commerce, has obtained clearances from the Ministry of Education, Ministry of Home Affairs, Ministry of External Affairs, and the University Grants Commission (UGC), based on IIFT.
A Milestone in Globalising Indian Education
The Dubai campus represents a new milestone in globalising Indian education, especially in addressing the goals of the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020.
Minister of Finance and Commerce Piyush Goyal welcomed the development, saying:
"This very much reflects the vision of the NEP 2020, a new era in internationalisation of Indian education."
The campus is bound to enhance India's footprint in education in the Gulf region and cater to a diverse student body comprising:
- The Indian expat community in the UAE and the neighboring nations
- International students who are interested in international trade
- Mid-career professionals who are looking for upskilling
Compliance and Operational Requirements
Prior to commencing academic activities, IIFT needs to obtain the required sanction from UAE government authorities. The Ministry of Education, in its May 15 official communication, specified some guidelines for the purpose of avoiding the diversion of domestic resources as follows:
- No diversion of faculty or academic infrastructure from current campuses
- No diversion of financial resources from IIFT New Delhi to the Dubai campus
These conditions aim to maintain the quality and functioning of IIFT activities in India and aid its development abroad.
About IIFT: A Legacy of Trade and Management Excellence
Founded in 1963 as a stand-alone organization by the Ministry of Commerce and Industry, IIFT has been a torchbearer in developing expertise in foreign trade and international business. The institute is highly acclaimed for providing professional education in management well-suited to the needs of international commerce.
Campuses and Programmes Currently Operational:
Campuses: New Delhi, Kolkata, and Kakinada (Andhra Pradesh)
Flagship Programmes:
- Two-year MBA in International Business (Delhi and Kolkata)
- PhD in Management (Delhi and Kolkata)
Looking Ahead: IIFT Dubai Campus
The Dubai campus is likely to:
- Become a strategic learning centre of the Gulf region
- Offer quality learning in international trade and business
- Enhance the global presence and reputation of IIFT
This venture can further solidify India's role as a world-class higher education hub, consistent with national and international aspirations.
