European universities offer unique courses with innovative pedagogy

Amid a rise in anti-immigrant sentiments and visa restrictions across the globe, Hervé Delphin, Ambassador of the EU to India, highlights that Indian students pick European universities not by default, but because of the vast array of courses offered in culturally diverse countries

Traditionally, a large cohort of Indian students was going to the US for higher education. Now, students are in two minds due to the rising anti-immigrant sentiments and visa restrictions in the US ever since the Trump government took over. Will this encourage more Indians to turn to universities in the EU?

I don’t think Indian students would go to Europe by default, as most of them are attracted to the vast array of courses offered in culturally diverse countries. Changing visa rules or any other political factors will not be the determining factor in students’ assessment. European schools offer unique courses and have innovative pedagogy. The US has large university campuses, while European universities are in the heart of the city or close to the city centre. This enriches the cultural experience for the students, besides allowing them to mingle with locals. Besides academic knowledge, students also get a chance to learn a European language. In the long run, it is advantageous as it opens opportunities in the European job market.

India is the biggest beneficiary of Erasmus Mundus scholarship and other scholarships offered by EU nations. How do you assess the Indian students who have been regularly exploring EU universities?

India is the only country where a large number of international students apply for the Erasmus+ scholarship and get selected. The growing number speaks volumes about their talent, persistence and academic excellence. It is heartening that bright students are opting for Europe, which also confirms the appeal of affordable and reliable European education. The students visiting universities as Erasmus scholars are becoming part of the India-EU story. They are the academic and cultural ambassadors who can be the main actors by continuing their professional careers in any of the EU nations.

In the changing geopolitical situations, should Indian students be mindful of selecting the university and country based on the job market and openness of locals?

We should not put too much pressure on the students. Most students find their way based on their academic interest and personal choice. Exposure to any global destination changes the perspective about academia and research. Students must not necessarily look for one specific place with a linear future as life is made of some so many different threads.

The US government is increasingly using social media vetting as part of the visa application process. Harvard University faced fund cuts under the guise of combating antisemitism. Are EU universities given more freedom and funds by the respective governments?

Universities across the globe are an open space. However, international students must stand by the rules of the land just like the local citizens. We pride ourselves on having universities as cradles of democracy and debate. It is only through the richness of these intellectual debates that novelty, innovation become the mainstay at an educational institute.

India and the EU are actively negotiating a Free Trade Agreement (FTA). How will the negotiation help in job creation?

The EU is actively negotiating the FTA on behalf of the 27 member states with an objective to create a mutually beneficial agreement that promotes trade, investment, and economic growth for both sides. It will provide opportunities for European companies to invest, trade with India and set up companies. The plans are to generate more jobs in India. European companies have a presence in India and have created around 8 million jobs, directly or indirectly. The negotiations will provide Indian companies with a chance to set up their business in Europe. The EU is the largest trading partner with India; it should grow further, considering the size of our respective economies. If we could double or triple these figures, there would be more opportunities for job creation, for exchange and mobility. The EU agenda will create more opportunities for the mobility of skilled workers.