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Prime ministers

UK Universities Set to Expand in India, Boosting Higher Education Sector

Strategic Insights

— 1 min read

Prime Minister Narendra Modi has announced that nine UK universities will soon establish campuses in India, marking a major boost to bilateral educational ties. The announcement follows a recent Free Trade Agreement (FTA) between the two countries and is the largest delegation from the education sector to visit India. The UK universities will cater to the growing demand for higher education in India, which is expected to rise to 70 million by 2035, according to the Indian government.

Key Takeaways:

  • Nine UK universities, including the University of Southampton, University of Liverpool, University of York, and University of Aberdeen, will establish campuses in India.
  • The University of Southampton's Gurugram campus is already operational, with the first class of students registering for the academic year.
  • The new campuses will be established in major Indian cities, including Mumbai, Bangalore, and Gujarat's GIFT City.
  • The UK universities will partner with Indian institutions to offer high-quality education to Indian students, creating jobs and economic opportunities.
  • The move aligns with the objectives of the UK-India Free Trade Agreement, aiming to enhance educational and economic relations between the two countries.
  • By 2035, India is expected to have around 70 million university students, up from the current 40 million.
  • The expansion of UK universities in India is a significant boost to the UK's reputation as a global education hub.
  • The UK universities will provide Indian students access to top-notch British education, creating a more accessible and affordable option for students who cannot afford to study abroad.

Statistics:

  • Around 40 million students are currently enrolled in universities in India.
  • India is expected to have around 70 million university students by 2035.
  • The UK universities will establish campuses in major Indian cities, including Mumbai, Bangalore, and Gujarat's GIFT City.
  • The UK has a world-renowned higher education sector, offering Indian students access to top-quality education without leaving their home country.
  • The move is expected to create jobs and economic opportunities in both the UK and India.

Sources:

  • "Narendra Modi Announces UK Universities in India as Part of Post-FTA Efforts", Indian National Press (Bombay) Pvt. Ltd., 10 October 2025.
  • "UK Universities set to expand in India, a major boost for bilateral educational ties", Contify.com, 10 October 2025.

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