Historically, mobility of scholars and students occurred for exchange of ideas and in the quest for philosophical, religious and cultural knowledge. Contemporarily, increasing globalisation coupled with rapid internationalisation of higher education has further propelled international academic mobility. Between 2000 to 2017 the total number of international students grew from 2 million to 5.3 million (UNESCO, 2019). Student mobility is driven not only by academic, but also by economic and cultural considerations. A host of factors play an important role in determining the nature, duration and destination of student mobility. These include the growing demand for higher education, expanded means of travel, enhanced specialisation of job roles and increased competitiveness within labour markets. These factors have also led to the creation of a global higher education market. USA, UK, Australia, France and Germany are some of the most popular student destinations in the world and more than half of international students are enrolled in these countries (Migration Data Portal). Central Asian Countries are also gradually emerging as a popular destination for foreign students. India in light of its growing youth population and rising income levels has positioned itself as a leading consumer of international higher education. Indian students occupy graduate, doctoral and post-doctoral positions at prestigious universities across the globe and are known for their strong linguistic skills and academic capabilities. As of July 2019, the number of Indian students pursuing higher education programs abroad is estimated to stand at nearly 10.9 lakhs (MEA)1. This large scale mobility of Indian students provides a huge dividend in terms of overall capacity building and knowledge enhancement within the country. The active international presence of Indian students has necessitated measures safeguarding their interests. The Indian missions abroad have been active in ensuring the wellbeing of Indian students studying abroad. Advisories are issued periodically to safeguard students from fraudulent educational institutions, regarding work and travel, and in situations of public emergency. Steps have also been taken to promote better engagement with Indian students. For instance, the ‘Embassy of India Student Hub’ isan initiative by the Indian Embassy in Washington DC to provide a platform for students to connect, collaborate, and converse -- both with each other, as well as with the Embassy. Bilateral initiatives like the Australia-India Education Council provide increased international opportunities for the mobility of researchers, recognition of qualifications, and vocational training. Indian students are also encouraged to register on the ‘Madad’ portal run by MEA which enables providing effective assistance in times of need.
In light of the growing demand for international higher education and the movement of Indian students abroad, it is pertinent to ideate strategies that can facilitate efficient and beneficial student migration. A range of issues arise in the area of international student mobility. This includes scholarships &funding, linguistic barriers, work &residence permits, degree recognition & equivalence, and post-study work opportunities. Furthermore, the outbreak of Covid-19 has altered global migration patterns and has also impacted the mobility of students. Recognition of distance learning degrees and promoting online and hybrid learning initiatives is an emerging issue in this regard. Capping the intake of international students and freezing of scholarships by universitieshas also created additional hurdles to student mobility. Additionally, in light of Covid 19, identifying emerging sectors of employment and associated programs/vocational training has also become crucial to boost post-study employment. Against this backdrop, India Centre for Migration seeks to organize a virtual discussion titled ’New Vistas of Higher Education and International Student Mobility’ on 16 July 2020 .The discussion will revolve around the following issues –