Canada steps up education diplomacy with India amid global student shifts

Canada is stepping up efforts to deepen education and research ties with India, as Indian students and researchers encounter increasing uncertainty in the United States.

Canadian universities are proposing expanded research partnerships and academic exchange programs with Indian institutions, positioning Canada as a stable alternative destination for global talent.

Universities Canada will lead a delegation of 21 university presidents to India from Feb 2 to 6, with engagements planned in Goa, New Delhi, and Gujarat International Finance Tech City, or GIFT City.

According to a report by a leading news agency, the delegation will meet representatives from academia, government, and industry to explore new avenues of cooperation.

The five-day visit will focus on strengthening research collaboration, expanding academic exchanges, and developing sustainable approaches to transnational education.

Discussions are expected to examine long-term institutional partnerships and joint research initiatives aligned with industry needs.

Christopher Cooter, High Commissioner of Canada to India, said the visit by Canadian university leaders marked “a big step in our renewed collaboration on research and education initiatives.”

He added that the engagement is being guided by the New Roadmap for Canada–India relations.

The delegation’s visit comes ahead of Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney’s planned mid-February trip to India, at a time when bilateral relations are showing renewed momentum.

Canada has recently announced the launch of negotiations for a Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement, or CEPA, with India.

Dinesh K Patnaik, High Commissioner of India to Canada, said the visit “marks an important step in deepening academic cooperation and advancing a forward-looking agenda” between the two countries.

According to diplomatic sources, the mission builds on strengthened bilateral engagement and a shared focus on expanding knowledge exchange and industry partnerships.

It also aligns with Canada’s $1.7 billion research and talent strategy outlined in the federal budget.

Gabriel Miller, president and CEO of Universities Canada, said universities play a central role in building global partnerships that support economic growth and opportunity.

He said the delegation reflects Canada’s commitment to creating lasting shared success with India.