The United Kingdom is not interested in limiting the number of Indian students seeking to pursue legitimate UG and PG courses in established universities. But it does not want students going for bad courses. “The immigration restriction is not a significant obstacle. The UK is rather keen on raising the bar,” according to Mike Nithavrianakis, Deputy High Commissioner, British Deputy High Commission in Chennai.
“Of course, we have a responsibility to make sure if there are bad agents and fake universities, and close them down by removing their ability to invite students,” Mr. Nithavrianakis told The Hindu Education Plus recently.
As for intra-company transfers made by software companies like Wipro, Infosys, TCS and Cognizant, the UK understands the NASSCOM's view that it should not lose out on an area of expertise. The British government has, however, insisted that for the duration the employees of these software companies are in the UK, they have to earn the same salary.
“Obviously, the British government wants to make changes to the immigration system. Though the UK, which has just come out of the global recession, is trying to strike a balance between security and opportunities, the country is absolutely open to business: We want to attract the brightest and best students and the strongest and most competent companies. Nevertheless, the British Government will not like a scenario where there are too many people coming for not enough opportunities,” Mr. Nithavrianakis said.
With the Indian Parliament approving the Foreign Education Providers Bill, the UK, he said, is very much interested in exploring business opportunities in the rapidly growing education sector. “India will have to educate crores of young people in schools, colleges and universities. It has to establish lots of institutions. That's where the UK can be very helpful.”
But he saw less scope for UK universities to establish their own campuses. “I don't think there will be a rush (by UK universities) to buy land, build campuses and open their door,” It is unlikely for institutions like Cambridge University and London School of Economics to establish campuses by themselves. UK universities would prefer to collaborate and partner with top-notch institutions like the IITs and business schools. Many UK universities are in discussions with Indian higher education institutions for tie-ups to make the students more competitive, said Mr. Nithavrianakis.
