BCU strengthens UK–India education and innovation ties
Birmingham City University (BCU) has reinforced its long-term commitment to India during a strategic visit to New Delhi, engaging with students, parents, academic leaders and policymakers to deepen collaboration between the United Kingdom and India.
Leading the delegation, Vice-Chancellor Professor David Mba highlighted the need for the UK — India education partnership to evolve beyond traditional student mobility. He emphasised a future-focused model built on co-creation, research collaboration and industry-driven innovation. According to university officials, India remains central to BCU’s Strategy 2030 vision, which aims to develop future-ready talent and drive economic prosperity through knowledge exchange.
Currently, more than 2,000 Indian students are enrolled at BCU’s Birmingham campus, making India one of the institution’s largest international student communities. The University has positioned itself as a practice-led institution, with programmes developed in collaboration with global industry leaders such as Microsoft, Amazon, Cisco and Jaguar Land Rover.
These partnerships help ensure students gain hands-on experience in high-growth sectors including artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, digital infrastructure, advanced manufacturing and sustainable mobility.
Beyond teaching, BCU is actively expanding research and innovation partnerships across India. Collaborative projects focus on areas such as climate resilience, smart cities, digital security and the creative industries. Several initiatives are supported by leading UK institutions including UK Research and Innovation and the British Council, reflecting the strength of bilateral academic ties.
University leaders also addressed common concerns raised by prospective students and parents, including visa pathways, post-study work opportunities and graduate employability. They reiterated that the UK continues to welcome genuine students and highlighted the structured Graduate Route that enables international graduates to gain work experience after completing their studies.
The visit also marks efforts to expand alumni engagement in India, with plans to strengthen professional networking and mentoring platforms in New Delhi. As global competition for international students intensifies, BCU’s India engagement signals a clear intent: to build a long-term, innovation-led partnership that benefits students, industry and both nations alike.
