India Advances Education in Tanzania

In an era where the landscape of global education is rapidly evolving, India stands as a beacon of progressive educational reform, transcending boundaries and fostering collaborative growth. With a surge in the number of its universities featured in the Times Higher Education World University Rankings, India's educational institutions are not only scaling new heights domestically but are also attracting international acclaim. 

India's educational landscape has undergone remarkable transformation, especially in recent years. The Times Higher Education World University Rankings of 2023 bear testament to this growth, featuring a record 91 Indian universities - a significant increase from just 31 in 2017. This rise is even more notable given the voluntary non-participation of a few prestigious Indian Institutes of Technology (IITs). India's educational allure is further underscored by the enrolment of over 48,000 foreign nationals in 2021, drawing students from neighbouring countries, African nations, and even the United States. 

Among India's venerable institutions, Jawaharlal Nehru University (JNU) holds a special place. Recognized for its diverse student body, vibrant intellectual atmosphere, and commitment to social justice, JNU has been a cradle for many notable alumni, including Nobel laureate Abhijit Banerjee, G20 Sherpa Amitabh Kant, and key Indian government officials. The university's global recognition was further elevated when the President of the United Republic of Tanzania, H. E Samia Suluhu Hassan, was conferred an honorary doctorate by JNU, becoming the first woman to receive this honour at the university on October 10th, 2023. This accolade highlights NU's pivotal role in strengthening Indo-Tanzanian relations and promoting economic diplomacy. 

The Indian Institutes of Technology (IITs) are globally renowned for their rigorous academic programs and contributions to key sectors such as IT, engineering, and manufacturing. Their challenging selection process, world-class faculty, and supportive environment for research and innovation have made IIT graduates highly sought after by global tech giants. In 2005, the U.S. House of Representatives honoured IIT graduates for their contributions to American society, marking the beginning of India's emergence as a global educational powerhouse. 

Moreover, IITs have fostered a culture of innovation and leadership. Their focus on research and development, combined with initiatives like the Centre for Innovation and Incubation Cell, has led to the creation of a new generation of innovators and scientists. This environment has been conducive to the birth of numerous startups, with a significant number of unicorns in India being founded by IIT graduates, as per data from Tracxn. 

India's educational influence has reached global dimensions, with IIT alumni leading some of Silicon Valley's biggest companies, such as Twitter, Alphabet, Adobe, Micron tech, etc. The establishment of an IIT centre in Zanzibar exemplifies India's commitment to educational development of the global south, offering Tanzanian youth access to world-class education, active and influential alumni network, and a platform to showcase their talent. This move not only represents a significant educational collaboration but also strengthens the socio-cultural ties between India and Tanzania. 

The historical ties between India and Tanzania, strengthened by shared colonial experiences, have evolved into robust bilateral relations, with India emerging as Tanzania's fourth largest trading partner and a significant source of investment. The recent trade agreement allowing transactions in local currencies is a step towards more efficient trade and a symbol of deepening trust. Education, particularly with the establishment of the IIT centre in Tanzania, plays a crucial role in this partnership, underscoring India's commitment to assisting Tanzania in developing a good education infrastructure and system for the young and vibrant demography, just as itself. 

Furthermore, during H.E. Samia's visit to India in October, the two countries enhanced their relationship to a strategic partnership, announcing a long-term cooperation agreement.

This agreement encompasses various sectors, including defence, digital technology, culture, sports, maritime industries, and the sharing of white shipping information, marking a significant step in their bilateral ties. In february 2024, Tanzania will participate as partner nation in the 37th Surajkund International Craft Mela- 2024. Since the event has cultural meaning for India and is a platform to showcase the traditional handcraft, handlooms, culture and cuisine, Tanzania's presence highlights the deepening ties between the nations. 

India's educational system, with its focus on skill enhancement, climate awareness, local languages, and technological integration, as outlined in its soon-to-be-implemented National Education Policy, is preparing its youth for nation-building roles. The Policy, focusing on holistic development of a child is particularly relevant in light of India's historical commitment to holistic education, dating back to ancient times. With a reformed system, the government is looking to prepare its youth for nation- building roles and carry India's ambitions forward. 

India's educational system, having evolved from its ancient roots to modern global heights, stands as a beacon of hope and a model for nations striving for development. As H.E. Samia stated during her address at JNU, India is an extended family of Tanzania. The bilateral relations, underpinned by educational and cultural exchanges, are not just strengthening ties but also bringing the peoples of these two nations closer together, paving the way for a future built on shared aspirations and mutual growth.