Over 30 Active Partnerships Enhance Collaboration Between Irish and Indian Institutions

Strengthening Ties: India and Ireland’s Shared Educational Heritage

The recent surge in Indian students choosing Ireland as their educational destination is a testament to its welcoming approach and world-class academic standards. Ireland now boasts the highest per capita population of Indian students, with 21 students for every 10,000 residents in the EU. Kelly, the guest of honor at OneStep Global’s Global Education Conclave 2024, announced that Ireland welcomed approximately 11,200 Indian students in 2023, a remarkable 75% increase compared to five years ago.

The country has already issued 9,000 study visas to Indian students, with an additional 3,000 expected by the end of the year. In contrast to the ‘big four’ study destinations, which are implementing various policy changes such as enrollment caps, visa restrictions, and bans on dependents, affecting international students, Ireland is taking a different approach. The Irish government has launched the Global Citizens 2030 International Talent and Innovation Strategy to position itself as a top choice for international students and researchers.

This strategy aims to increase the number of international students, researchers, and innovators in Ireland by 10% by 2030, focusing on priority destinations to achieve this goal. It is designed to attract talent and innovation, reinforcing Ireland’s position as a leader in education, research, innovation, and science policy. While Ireland is prioritizing the Indian market within its educational landscape, the two countries share a rich historical connection that dates back to the early 20th century. Their relationship developed during their independence movements, with many elements of the Indian Constitution inspired by the Irish Constitution.

Irish educators and missionaries played a significant role in shaping India’s education system and establishing a network of schools. The current educational ties between the two nations note over 30 active partnerships between higher education institutions in Ireland and India. These partnerships include comprehensive memoranda of understanding as well as specific academic and research collaborations. Fields such as engineering, design, and law exemplify the collaboration between Irish and Indian institutions. Additionally, there are articulation agreements and exchange initiatives for students and faculty, particularly in hospitality and pharmaceutical sciences.

The Irish Embassy in India launched the Ireland-India Affinity Diaspora Network in New Delhi, reflecting the strong people-to-people connections between the two nations. This network aims to unite individuals who have studied or worked in Ireland, promoting shared values and cultural ties between Ireland and India.

Editor's Note:

Ireland's Global Citizens 2030 International Talent and Innovation Strategy aims to increase the number of international students by 10% by 2030. This forward-thinking strategy not only enhances Ireland's position as a leader in education, research, and innovation but also strengthens the historical and cultural ties between India and Ireland. With over 30 active partnerships between higher education institutions in both countries, collaboration in fields like engineering, design, and law exemplifies the mutual benefits and shared goals. The establishment of the Ireland-India Affinity Diaspora Network further reinforces these deep-rooted connections, promoting shared values and cultural ties. 

Skoobuzz appreciates this initiative as this significant move highlights Ireland's commitment to fostering a diverse and inclusive educational environment, positioning itself as a top choice for international students and researchers.