CBI: UK-India university bonds are strong, but we can do even more

9 Nov 2016 01:44 PM

As the UK forges a new economic role in the world following the EU referendum, strengthening our global links will be more important than ever, and partnerships between UK and Indian universities, though thriving, have the potential to be deepened further.

Speaking at the CEO Forum in Delhi, Carolyn said that the UK is India’s biggest investor among the G20 countries, supporting nearly 700,000 jobs.  With higher education an increasing priority for India, the vibrant range of existing research partnerships, high-quality teaching and business incubators demonstrate how both nations can benefit from a closer working relationship.

Launching the CBI’s latest report, Bridges to the future: The role of universities in the UK-India relationship - in partnership with Middlesex University London and supported by the Confederation of Indian Industry – she said that we must build on our competitive advantage and success to the benefit of both countries. 

Read the full report

Carolyn Fairbairn, CBI Director-General, said:

“India and the UK working together is an unbeatable combination and there is genuine potential to do even more and secure future growth. Our two countries have close bonds and starting from this strong base, it is now time to deepen these bilateral links as we forge a new economic role in the world.

“Together we must identify ways of building new trade and investment partnerships through higher education, creating opportunities to tackle the shared challenges of our countries. As more UK universities work with Indian partners to provide innovative education options for India’s talented and motivated students, business, government and universities all have a part to play to help these partnerships flourish.”

Referencing a number of case studies from the report, Carolyn emphasised the potential of joint ventures and the role companies, universities and governments have in supporting growth.  She profiled the Indian government’s ‘Start-up India’ campaign to foster entrepreneurship, which includes start-up support hubs at a number of research institutes, supported by national or state governments in both countries. 

Professor Tim Blackman, Vice Chancellor, Middlesex University London, said:

“I am delighted that Middlesex University London is working with the CBI on this initiative. Middlesex University London enjoys strong links with India and we are looking forward to growing our relationships by continuing to welcome Indian students to our campuses, and working with business and Indian universities on joint research and bespoke higher education qualifications.”