Australia Refutes Claims of Student Application Restrictions from Certain Indian States
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Synopsis
Australia has refuted claims that student applications from certain Indian states are being restricted. The country continues to support a strong educational partnership with India, emphasizing the value of Indian students in its academic environment.
Key Takeaways
- Australia denies any bans on Indian student applications.
- Strong educational ties between India and Australia.
- Education is a key service export to India.
- New agreements enhance educational cooperation.
- Major universities are expanding their global presence.
New Delhi, April 22 (NationPress) On Tuesday, Australia labeled the claims regarding the banning or restriction of Indian university student applications from certain Indian states as incorrect.
“The assertion that Indian university student applications from specific Indian states are being banned, or restricted, is incorrect. There are over 125,000 Indian students currently studying in Australia – the second largest cohort of students from any country - and the Australian Government continues to process Indian student visa applications in alignment with our global standards,” stated a spokesperson for the Australian High Commission in New Delhi.
“India and Australia maintain a robust relationship in the education sector. Australia highly values Indian students and welcomes their contributions to our classrooms and society,” the spokesperson added.
Recent reports had suggested that several Australian universities imposed restrictions on student visa applications from six Indian states as part of a broader initiative.
The educational partnership between Australia and India serves as a crucial aspect of their bilateral relations, fostering connections between both communities, creating future-ready workforces, and stimulating economic development.
Education stands as Australia's premier service export to India, valued at $4.4 billion in 2022. As of 2023, there were 126,487 Indian student enrolments in Australia, constituting about 16 percent of the nation's international student population.
Australia is dedicated to enhancing the educational collaboration with India through increased institutional partnerships, innovative delivery methods, and greater research cooperation.
In March 2023, Australia's and India's Education Ministers signed the inaugural Mechanism for the Mutual Recognition of Qualifications. This agreement facilitates the acknowledgment of qualifications between the two nations, promoting access to higher education.
Moreover, during his visit to India in March 2023, Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese announced that Deakin University would become the first institution globally authorized to establish an international teaching campus in India. Following this, the University of Wollongong also received approval to set up a campus in Gujarat International Finance Tec-City (GIFT City).
