Union Minister for Education Dharmendra Pradhan on October 6 raised the issue of 17,000 Indian students who wish to go back to Australia for their education during a virtual meeting with Australian counterpart Alan Tudge. During the virtual meet, both Ministers laid emphasis on both countries’ commitment to supporting Australia-bound students at every stage. As reported by ANI, after the virtual meeting, it is expected that the return of as many as 17,000 Indian students will start soon.
Dharmendra Pradhan took to Twitter and said on October 6 that he had a productive discussion with Tudge. The Australian counterpart had briefed Minister Pradhan about the steps his government will take to facilitate the return of Indian students to Australia. During the virtual discussion, both Ministers agreed to bolster the growth of Australia and India in higher education, especially in two-way student mobility, teacher exchanges, applied research and other areas of mutual priority through a partnership.
“@AlanTudgeMP also elaborated on Australia’s preparation, including a student’s arrival pilot for the return of International and Indian students to Australia. Both India and Australia are committed to supporting Australia-bound Indian students at every stage,” Tudge had tweeted.
Education Minister Pradhan said that the education and skill spectrum has significant potential for further cooperation between New Delhi and Canberra.
Last week, Australia announced the reopening of international travel and relaxation of border restrictions. The country has also approved the India-made Covishield vaccine of the Serum Institute of India (SII) for smooth travel to the country. During the Covid-19 pandemic, there was confusion on the return of students after arriving in India. This is a positive development as far as Indian students are concerned. They can now go back to Australia to attend the in-person courses as the Australian government has accepted India’s Covishield vaccine.
