Unlocking India’s Brain Gain Potential: Shaping the Future of Inbound Student Mobility in Indian Higher Education
摘要
India has established itself as a major exporter of students to the global educational market. However, it remains on the periphery as a destination for inbound international students. Despite the country’s deep cultural heritage, increasing economic strength, and a large network of higher education institutions, Indian universities attract only a small fraction of international students from developed nations. This chapter examines the multifaceted challenges that hinder India’s ability to position itself as a top destination for global learners. These challenges include infrastructural inadequacies, a lack of global educational recognition, bureaucratic administrative processes, and outdated pedagogical approaches. The chapter offers a comprehensive analysis of these barriers while placing a unique emphasis on the untapped potential of humanities education. It advocates for the integration of interdisciplinary, skill-based courses rooted in India’s cultural traditions and educational strengths. By offering innovative programs in Indian performing arts, sustainability, culinary heritage, Indigenous medicine, and Vedantic philosophy, India can differentiate itself on the world stage. The chapter also underscores the vital roles of policymakers and private universities in driving institutional reform and innovation. Ultimately, it presents a forward-looking strategy for transforming India into a global hub for education.