NEP And Internationalisation: How Study Abroad Aspirants Benefit From These Reforms

India's education system has undergone significant reforms with the introduction of the National Education Policy (NEP) in 2020. Aimed at revolutionising the nation's educational landscape, the NEP focuses on nurturing innovation, fostering creativity, and igniting critical thinking. Amidst these landmark reforms, one aspect has emerged as a game-changer for Indian students: the policy's strong emphasis on internationalisation. Abhijit Zaveri, Founder and Director of Career Mosaic in a conversation with republic world has talked about various aspects on how study abroad aspirants benefit from NEP.

"The National Education Policy recognises the importance of providing students with a global perspective. It emphasises the need for internationalisation, encouraging students to gain exposure to diverse cultures, ideas, and educational systems. This shift in focus has led to increased awareness and interest among Indian students in pursuing higher education abroad, as also interest in foreign universities setting up campuses in India. Study abroad programs offer a unique opportunity for students to experience different teaching methods, engage in cross-cultural interactions, and develop a global mindset," he said. 

Enhanced Academic Collaboration

As per the New Education policy of 2020, India will now allow foreign universities to set up their campuses in India. On February 1, 2022, presenting the Union Budget FY23, finance minister Nirmala Sitharaman had said the government will allow setting up of world-class foreign universities in GIFT City in Gujarat.

Further, implementation of NEP’s internationalization agenda will open avenues for joint research projects, faculty exchange programs, and twinning arrangements, enabling students to access high-quality education and research opportunities. Such international collaborations shall not only enrich the learning experience of students but also add to their international mobility.

Emphasis on Skill Development

The NEP highlights the importance of skill development and aims to bridge the gap between education and employability. Special emphasis has been laid on inducting specialised programmes such as ‘Coding’ from the middle school. This allows students to be equipped with contemporary skill sets, also improving their employability quotient.

Engagement with International institutions allows Indian students to develop a range of transferable skills such as adaptability, communication, critical thinking, and problem-solving. By navigating different educational systems and cultural environments, students gain valuable perspectives that supports their global citizenship.

Diverse Academic Choices

The NEP 2020 encourages flexibility and multidisciplinary learning, allowing students to pursue a broader range of subjects and choose personalised academic pathways. The new NEP 2020 for example allows one to choose a major and a minor undergraduate course, enabling the learner to shift the subject based on their preference. Furthermore, the reform has allowed the transfer of credits.

Additionally, overseas education programs offer a vast array of academic choices that may not always be readily available within India's educational institutions. This freedom to explore diverse disciplines and specialisation options can be instrumental in shaping a learner's career trajectories and helping to evolve their individual interests.

Building Global Networks and Culturally Diverse Cohorts

Studying abroad provides Indian students with an opportunity to build an international network of peers, mentors, and professionals from diverse backgrounds. Such connections can be valuable for future collaborations, career opportunities, and global mobility in general. Moreover, by immersing themselves in different cultures, students develop cultural competence and the ability to work effectively in multi-cultural teams—an essential in today's interconnected world.

Challenges and Considerations

While the NEP has undoubtedly opened new avenues for Indian students to pursue international education, there are certain challenges and considerations to address. These include financial implications, adapting to different teaching methodologies, cultural adjustment, and ensuring the quality of education abroad. It is crucial for students to conduct thorough research, seek guidance from reputable educational consultants, and consider scholarships or financial aid options to make study abroad experiences more informed and affordable.

As India continues to embrace internationalisation, it is vital to support and empower students in navigating the challenges and maximising the benefits of studying abroad.