The University of Surrey intends to open a branch campus in India’s Gift City, subject to regulatory approval.
The British institution is working with international education company GUS Global Services, a subsidiary of private higher education provider Global University Systems, to develop a new outpost in Gujarat’s special economic zone.
According to the institution, planning of the new campus is at “an advanced stage of pre-delivery”. However, the university will need approval from the city’s regulators before it can move ahead.
Outgoing Surrey vice-chancellor Max Lu is expected to meet Gift City officials on 31 January to discuss plans for the new branch.
If successful, the campus will offer programmes related to business, international finance, computer science and computer security.
“The University of Surrey campus at Gift City will be a shining example of British education excellence and impact, contributing to transnational education in a more globalised world,” said Lu.
“Students can look forward to a world-class education delivered at the heart of a thriving new international finance and technology powerhouse for the region. Together we’ll be contributing to the skills and growth agendas of both our countries.”
As part of the partnership, GUS is expected to manage ancillary services on behalf of the university, including student enrolment, campus establishment and operations management, while the university will be responsible for all teaching and “academic assurance”.
There were 1,090 Indian students enrolled at the University of Surrey’s home campus in the 2022-23 academic year, according to the Higher Education Statistics Agency.
Last year, trade union members at the university submitted a vote of no confidence in senior management after job cuts were planned in a bid to close the institution’s budget shortfall. Surrey reported an operating deficit of £17.9 million for 2023-24.
Queen’s University Belfast, which has been approved by Gift City regulators to open a campus, reported a £12.7 million operating deficit in 2023-24.
Universities that establish outposts in Gift City are exempt from many of the regulations that apply to foreign businesses in the rest of India, including rules around the repatriation of profits.
If approved, Surrey will join the likes of Australia’s Deakin University and the University of Wollongong, which have already opened teaching spaces in Gift City.
Some institutions, including the University of Southampton and Western Sydney University, have also announced plans to open branches in other parts of India, where more stringent regulations apply.
“This initiative seeks to expand world-class academic standards and global learning experiences available in India,” said Sharad Mehra, GUS’ chief executive, Asia-Pacific. “It will offer Indian students the opportunity to access transformative education without leaving the country.”
