Deakin University's GIFT City Campus Celebrates Its First Foundation Day In India

Deakin University's GIFT City Campus, marking its first Foundation Day, stands as a testament to the institution's dedication to advancing education in India, aligning with the National Education Policy 2020's vision for internationalizing education. This milestone underscores Deakin University's role as a leader in offering future-ready education to Indian students, a commitment that is evident from its establishment of India's inaugural international branch campus in Gandhinagar. Celebrating this significant occasion, the campus, nestled within the Gujarat International Finance Tec-City (GIFT City), exemplifies the fusion of premier education and industry-centric opportunities available to students in their homeland.

The event, enriched by the presence of Dr. Dipesh Shah, Executive Director of the International Financial Services Centres Authority (IFSCA), along with industry stalwarts, Ms. Ravneet Pawha, Deakin University’s Vice President (Global Engagement) and CEO (South Asia), and the GIFT City campus's senior leaders, faculty, and students, was marked by traditional ceremonial activities. These included lamp lighting, cake-cutting, and a vibrant drum circle, fostering a strong sense of community. A Box Cricket Tournament at the All-Seasons Sports Facility in Gandhinagar added excitement to the celebrations, where students participated in an IPL-style auction, showcasing the spirit of competition and camaraderie.

Dr. Dipesh Shah, in his address, emphasized the significance of Deakin's GIFT City Campus in realising a dream for many. He stated, "I am excited and happy to be a part of the celebrations of the first foundation day. Being on the Deakin campus in GIFT city is like a dream come true for us. I am extremely delighted to see that the students have shown faith in Deakin, in GIFT City, and the entire ecosystem by choosing to study at an international branch campus in GIFT City." He further encouraged students to immerse themselves in GIFT City's vibrant ecosystem, taking advantage of the global opportunities it offers.

Ms. Ravneet Pawha highlighted the campus's role as a hub of collaboration and innovation, where academic excellence meets the needs of the industry. "The Foundation Day marks a significant milestone, establishing Deakin's GIFT City campus as a beacon of collaboration and innovation, where academic excellence meets industry needs. This campus represents our unwavering commitment to nurturing a generation of skilled professionals who will drive India's growth and have a global impact," she remarked. She also noted the campus's emphasis on fostering research and innovation through industry-academia partnerships, aiming to create an ecosystem for entrepreneurship and excellence.

Deakin GIFT City Campus offers two advanced programs tailored to meet India's digital economy's skill requirements: the Master of Business Analytics and the Master of Cyber Security (Professional). These programs blend academic theory with practical applications, equipping graduates with immediately relevant skills for the workforce. The campus's state-of-the-art facilities and commitment to sustainability reflect GIFT City's vision, offering students a modern, global learning environment. Applications for these industry-focused programs are currently open and will conclude on March 31, 2025.

Established in 1974, Deakin University is celebrated for its teaching excellence, impactful research, and effective industry-government partnerships. Its vibrant academic culture and strong presence in South Asia are part of its mission to deliver global education locally, reinforcing its position as a leading Australian higher education institution.