Creating Bright Futures: Newcastle University Deepens Partnerships Across India
20 February 2026
Building long-term, values-driven collaboration
A senior delegation from Newcastle University, led by Vice-Chancellor and President Professor Christopher Day, recently concluded a highly productive visit to India. The trip celebrated long-standing relationships and opened doors to new collaborations. It also reflected the University’s deep commitment to working closely with partners and communities across the country.
The delegation travelled across several cities engaging with universities, government, industry representatives, students and alumni. The visit highlighted the breadth of Newcastle University’s engagement in India. It also highlighted the warmth and shared purpose that characterise these connections.
Commenting on the visit, Professor Christopher Day, Vice-Chancellor and President of Newcastle University, said:
“India is an essential partner for Newcastle University, and this visit has demonstrated both the strength of our existing relationships and the enormous potential for new collaborations. I was inspired by the innovation, ambition and sense of purpose shown by our partners, alumni, students and colleagues across the country. We remain deeply committed to working together to create opportunities that deliver meaningful social, economic and educational impact.”
Sharing ideas and shaping the future at global education events
During the visit, Newcastle University took part in major sector events. This included the India Global Education Summit in Chennai, the QS India Summit in Goa and the PIE Conference in Delhi.
Across these gatherings, discussions focused on global mobility, employability, industry collaboration and skills development. AI and the changing expectations of scholars was also in focus.
Professor Day contributed to the QS Summit’s Plenary Spotlight session, 'The Global Skills Imperative', emphasising the responsibility universities share in preparing graduates with the skills needed for a rapidly evolving global landscape.
Across all forums, Newcastle University reaffirmed its commitment to long-term collaborations shaped by mutual benefit and shared societal goals.
Expanding collaboration with leading Indian universities
Alongside sector events, the delegation met with senior leaders at O.P. Jindal Global University and Symbiosis International University. They explored new opportunities in innovation, student mobility, skills development and joint research.
These discussions mark a strengthening of key institutional links. They reaffirmed Newcastle University’s belief that partnerships grounded in shared values are the most powerful route to lasting impact.
Deepening academic partnerships
The delegation received a friendly welcome from colleagues and students at the Kalinga Institute of Industrial Technology (KIIT), the Kalinga Institute of Social Sciences (KISS) and the Kalinga Institute of Medical Sciences (KIMS) in Bhubaneswar.
Hosted by senior institutional leaders, the meetings focused on expanding joint academic initiatives, mobility pathways, and research opportunities. In particular, they built on the partnership already developing between KIIT and Newcastle University’s Singapore campus.
The delegation also met Dr Achyuta Samanta, Founder of KIIT and KISS, during the QS Summit in Goa. His lifelong dedication to social and community empowerment reinforced the shared institutional belief in education as a transformative force.
A highlight was spending time on campus with the 10,000 KISS students.
Global Education Manager Sanjana commented:
“It is incredibly inspiring to witness the scale of vision and the impact the institution has achieved. The integration of education, social responsibility, and community development is remarkable. Standing among 10,000 students at KISS was profoundly moving. Their pride, energy and warmth were a powerful reminder of why access to education changes lives and why our work truly matters.”
Celebrating our alumni communities in Delhi and Mumbai
Alumni events in Delhi and Mumbai brought together graduates from across disciplines and graduating years. They provided opportunities to reconnect, share experiences, and discuss future plans. Graduates reflected on their time in Newcastle. They spoke about the difference it has made to their professional lives and sense of international belonging.
Professor Day shared insights into how universities are responding to the fast pace of change in AI and machine learning. He spoke about how these developments are shaping Newcastle’s teaching and research in areas including engineering, sustainability and healthcare.
Alumnus Mr Abhijit Kumar, Associate Director at PWC shared his thoughts;
“Honoured to attend the recent Newcastle University Alumni chapter in New Delhi, a wonderful evening of reconnection. It was insightful to hear how leading UK Higher Education institutions like Newcastle University are thoughtfully integrating the rapidly evolving landscape of AI and machine learning into their work to prepare the next generation of innovators.”
Celebrating partners and in-country teams
The visit included a special ‘Partners Evening’ which celebrated Newcastle University’s valued network of education representatives across India. Their commitment, expertise and dedication to supporting prospective students play an essential role in strengthening the University’s regional engagement activity.
Looking ahead with purpose
The visit involved high-level sector dialogues, heartfelt alumni reunions and unforgettable moments with students. It also highlighted the vibrancy and depth of Newcastle University’s connections across India.
The University looks forward to building on the outcomes of the visit, strengthening existing relationships and shaping new initiatives that support its global vision for education, research and positive societal impact.