July 12, 2018
The Group of Eight (Go8), which is comprised of Australia’s leading research-intensive universities, is pleased to have its India development strategy endorsed so comprehensively within the “India Economic Strategy” released today.
“We are particularly pleased to see so many of the findings from the work of our Go8-India PhD Advisory Taskforce reflected in the recommendations,” said Vicki Thomson Go8 Chief Executive. “As we realised over a year ago, deepening our two-way research links – starting with PhD students – will help both our countries reach our commercialisation and advancement potential.
“To this end we released a Two-Way Mobility Report, recommending practical measures similar to those found in the India Economic Strategy – such as the importance of short term exchange programmes, as is provided through the New Colombo Plan, and the importance of overcoming financial barriers to study.”
Go8 members are proud of the significant number of highly successful research alliances they already have in India, including the esteemed IITB-Monash Research Academy which has attracted global recognition.
“But there is much more the Go8 can contribute strategically in India, and which we are actively planning,” said Ms Thomson.
Ms Thomson said India, as the world’s third largest economy, and with the need to train an estimated 400 million young people in coming decades, was an important partner for the Go8.
“It is obvious from the India Economic Strategy that its author Peter Varghese AO – who was previously head of Australia’s Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade – well understands what can work strategically in growing trade and education programs, contracts and partnerships between the two nations,” said Ms Thomson.
“The Go8 welcomes the strategy document, especially the recognition that there is no sector with greater promise for Australia in India than education, and the need to increase and deepen two-way research links. We are delighted to see many of our suggestions reflected in the report, and urge the Turnbull Government to accept the recommendations.”
The Go8 Two-Way Mobility Report can be downloaded at: https://www.go8.edu.au/sites/default/files/docs/publications/go8-phd-taskforce-report_final_reduced.pdf
Contact: Vicki Thomson, Group of Eight Chief Executive on +61 438 047 155
