Mumbai : Ireland’s Minister of Children, Equality, Disability, Integration and Youth, Mr. Roderic O’Gorman paid a visit to SNDT Women’s University in Mumbai during his official tour in India with the intention of promoting cultural understanding, community collaboration, and trade associations between India and Ireland. The two countries are firm believers that students represent a country’s future and lay the foundation for a better tomorrow, which has shaped and strengthened educational ties between them.
The Minister was accompanied by various government officials and representatives from Irish higher education institutions, namely National College of Ireland, University College Cork, and Technological University of the Shannon, Midlands Midwest. Together, the delegation discussed education partnerships and possible collaborations with the Indian university.
During his visit to the University, Mr. Roderic O’Gorman said, “India and Ireland have always stressed upon the need for qualitative and inclusive education in the development of a nation. We also believe in the internationalization of education for the upliftment of the global community. Our relations and partnerships with Indian institutes help us achieve this common goal. This association with Mumbai’s SNDT Women’s University is another positive step towards creating opportunities for students in both nations, and in bringing them closer in the global education landscape.”
SNDT Women’s University, founded in 1916, is India’s first ever university for women. In its century-old existence, the university has grown to become a multidisciplinary institution, ranking 32nd in its segment nationally. With its commitment to achieve excellence in quality and social responsibility, the university has initiated educational and diplomatic relations with international institutions and political bodies.
Professor Ujwala Chakradeo, Vice Chancellor at SNTD Women’s University stated, “India has made significant progress in welcoming an international perspective on education and academics. Irish universities have time and again partnered with Indian universities to promote quality education and provide access to economic opportunities at a global level. We look forward to a mutually rewarding partnership with Irish educational institutions that will expose our students to a cutting-edge learning experience.”
Mr. Barry O’Driscoll, Regional Manager, India and South Asia at Education in Ireland said, “We are delighted to facilitate Minister O’Gorman’s visit to SNDT Women’s University in Mumbai to not only enhance educational relations between India and Ireland, but also create global opportunities for students in both countries. With world-class educators and education facilities, Irish higher education institutions are enthusiastic about working with Indian educationalists and institutions to create leaders and innovators of tomorrow.”
Ireland has been a significant partner for India in driving cross-border educational collaborations and enforcing a global outlook towards academia and industry. Ireland remains one of the most popular study-abroad destination for students in India, with more than 6000 students seeking admission into Irish higher education institutions as of 2022.