Powering Talent, Innovation and Industry: A New UK–India Collaboration Framework

New Delhi [India], February 24: Birmingham City University (BCU), one of the United  Kingdom’s leading practice-led institutions, is currently in New Delhi to engage with students, parents, academic partners and policymakers, reinforcing its long-term commitment to India.

Addressing stakeholders during the visit, Professor David Mba, Vice-Chancellor of  BCU, emphasised that the UK–India education partnership must evolve from traditional student mobility to deeper collaboration, co-creation and shared innovation.

India Central to BCU’s Vision 

India is a key partner in BCU’s Strategy 2030 goal, which aims to create talent prepared for the future and use knowledge to drive prosperity. India is one of BCU’s major international communities, with over 2,000 Indian students now enrolled at the university’s Birmingham campus.

BCU’s programmes are designed in close collaboration with global industry leaders  including Microsoft, Amazon, Cisco and Jaguar Land Rover. This ensures students gain hands-on exposure in high-growth sectors such as artificial intelligence, cybersecurity,  digital infrastructure, advanced manufacturing, sustainable mobility and green transition.

Academic & Research Collaboration 

Beyond admissions, BCU is actively engaged in research and innovation partnerships across India. The University has delivered impactful initiatives such as the MSc  Advancing Diabetes Care programme, which has upskilled doctors across India through  accessible online learning. In addition, BCU is involved in multiple collaborative research projects spanning climate resilience, smart cities, digital security and creative industries.

These initiatives are supported by organisations including UK Research and Innovation,  the British Council and the British Academy, reflecting robust institutional ties between the two nations.

Addressing Student Concerns 

During interactions with media and parents, the University leadership addressed key  concerns frequently raised:

• Visa & Post-Study Work: The UK continues to welcome genuine students, with structured visa pathways and the Graduate Route enabling post-study work opportunities.
• Value for Investment: BCU’s industry-aligned curriculum and employability focus ensure students gain practical skills and strong career outcomes. 
• Quality Assurance: Any transnational education models maintain rigorous UK  academic standards.
• Student Safety & Support: Birmingham is a diverse and student-friendly city, with comprehensive academic and welfare support systems in place.

Strengthening Long-Term Engagement 

BCU’s engagement with India extends beyond academics. During the 2022  Commonwealth Games, BCU students designed the medals awarded to athletes, reflecting the University’s creative excellence and global outlook.

The University is also establishing a BCU alumni chapter in New Delhi to foster mentoring, professional networking and enduring institutional connections.

As competition among global study destinations intensifies, Birmingham City University positions itself as a partner in progress—focused on employability, innovation and  sustainable collaboration.

The visit to New Delhi signals a clear message: BCU is committed not just to recruiting  Indian students, but to building a forward-looking partnership that benefits both India  and the United Kingdom.