Sciences Po's Future: Enhanced International Collaboration and Academic Excellence Under New Leadership

Luis Vassy Emphasizes Responsible Freedom of Expression at Sciences Po

Luis Vassy, the new Director of Sciences Po in Paris, plans to strengthen ties with Indian institutions by introducing more dual programs, increasing student mobility, encouraging more Indian students to study in France and for French students to study in India, and combining engineering with social sciences. During his first international trip to India, he highlighted that of the 15,000 students at Sciences Po, about 50% are international, including 400 from India. Vassy noted that 10 applications are received for each admission slot for international students, making the programs highly selective. While maintaining this approach, he observed a significant increase in demand. This year, foreign applications rose by 30% compared to the previous year, possibly due to changing dynamics in countries like the US, UK, Canada and other international factors.

Moreover, Sciences Po is highly internationalized, with 50% of its students coming from outside of France. Most programs are taught in both French and English, reflecting the institution's openness to international cooperation. For future expansion, India is a key priority due to its intellectual and academic strengths and talented student pool. Traditionally focused on engineering and business schools, Vassy aims to broaden collaboration to include governance, finance, law, and urban studies. He noted the strong historical ties between France and India and the goal of both governments to reach 30,000 Indian students in France. Additionally, he hopes for an increase in French students studying at Indian universities.

The ongoing debate on foreign students is prominent in countries like Canada and the US, Sciences Po does not face the same challenges due to broad consensus in France on internationalization. The varsity must train elites in an international context. Historically a traditional institution for French elites in fields such as economics, politics, and administration, Sciences Po has become more international over the past 25 years. This evolution aligns with the need to educate elites who understand the global landscape. By admitting foreign students, Sciences Po enriches the education and training of its students. The current program aims to expand collaborations with other universities. They have 14 partnerships with Indian institutions, including public and private universities and institutes of technology. There is a strong willingness among Indian counterparts to further strengthen these ties. Efforts will focus on developing partnerships in areas such as government affairs, public policy, and combining engineering with social sciences. Acknowledging India's strong emphasis on engineering education, Vassy suggested opportunities for joint programs with Indian institutions in this field.

When asked about the possibility of Sciences Po setting up campuses in India, the Director said it's too early to decide on setting up campuses in India, focusing instead on strengthening partnerships with Indian institutions. The possibility could be explored if there is interest from India. In the short term, efforts will aim at increasing mobility, dual programs, academic exchanges, and research collaborations. Talking about the student protests, especially regarding police intervention on campus during protests against Israel's actions in Gaza, Vassy stressed that freedom of expression is central to the university's mission including both individual and group expression without restrictions. However, he noted that freedom of expression should not infringe upon others' rights. Aggressive protests that monopolize spaces or intimidate others can hinder others' ability to express their views. Vassy emphasized that all opinions are welcome on campus as long as they remain legal.

Vassy reaffirmed the university's commitment to freedom of expression within a responsible framework that prohibits violence, intimidation, and dominating tactics. He emphasized that as an intellectual and academic institution, the university addresses complex issues like the Israel-Palestine conflict through knowledge and academic discussions, evidenced by conferences held on the topic. However, the university is still determining its stance on whether institutions should take political positions. He recently received a report from three academics at Sciences Po discussing standards for political positions. While individuals and groups can express their opinions, the question of institutional political stances remains open. Vassy personally leans towards a reserved approach, believing that political positioning could make the institution a target. The matter will be addressed through consensus and debated at the university’s governance council in February.

Furthermore, the university has experienced both continuity and change over the years. It has maintained a strong emphasis on combining theory and practice, with many courses taught by active professionals. The central Paris location provides students with diverse experiences. Vassy highlighted the ongoing focus on training students for both civil service and the private sector. The university has significantly internationalized, evolving from a French institution training French elites to a global one educating elites from around the world. He views this shift positively, emphasizing the importance of international exposure for understanding national needs. The university's mission includes bringing together people worldwide to learn responsible leadership and values to apply in their home countries. Vassy also aims to strengthen ties with India, recognizing the value of understanding effective and efficient democratic systems.

Sciences Po was founded after France's defeat in 1871 to train elites to create an efficient French republic. Over the past 150 years, this objective has been largely successful. He emphasized that the university aims to continue fostering the connection between leadership, democracy, and efficiency, which he considers crucial for the future of societies.

Editor's Note:

The appointment of Luis Vassy as the new Director of Sciences Po in Paris marks a significant moment for the prestigious university's future. Vassy's plans to strengthen ties with Indian institutions through increased student mobility, dual programs, and interdisciplinary collaborations highlight his vision for a global educational exchange. His commitment to maintaining freedom of expression, fostering internationalization, and addressing political positions within the institution underscores the university's dedication to creating a diverse, inclusive, and intellectually stimulating environment. 

Skoobuzz believes that Vassy's leadership will further enhance Sciences Po's reputation as a leading global institution for higher education and research.