University of Southampton becomes first to begin operations under UGC’s foreign campus rules

Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan and Haryana Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini inaugurated the University of Southampton’s new campus in Gurugram, marking a significant moment in India’s expanding engagement with global institutions.

The launch also aligns with the fifth anniversary of the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020.

With this move, the University of Southampton became the first foreign university to begin operations in India under the University Grants Commission’s regulations for setting up campuses of foreign higher educational institutions.

Calling the occasion a “momentous milestone” in the internationalization of education, Pradhan said it is an important step toward strengthening the India-UK education partnership envisioned in the India-UK Roadmap 2030.

He added that the Gurugram campus, backed by Southampton’s global reputation and industry-relevant courses, would play a vital role in nurturing future leaders.

Quoting Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Pradhan described education as a “living bridge” between India and the UK. He said the establishment of this campus would further reinforce that bond.

Haryana Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini welcomed the university’s entry into the state and reiterated the government’s aim to position the region as a global hub for education and innovation.

Pradhan also extended an open invitation to other world-class institutions to set up campuses in India, stating, “Together, we must strive to build a bright future and drive innovation and progress.”

The Gurugram campus will offer undergraduate and postgraduate programs in line with UK academic standards.

Students will also have the chance to study for up to one year at the university’s campuses in the UK or Malaysia.

Courses set to begin in 2025 include B.Sc programs in Computer Science, Economics, Accounting & Finance, and Business Management, along with M.Sc programs in Finance and International Management.