The Hon. Grace Grace MP, Minister for Education, Queensland, addressed education experts and senior representatives from higher and vocational education on 14 July on the theme of fostering education collaboration and engagement with India. Over 80 people were present at the session, which also included a panel discussion with industry leaders. Equity in education, mutual respect, and understanding shared challenges were highlighted by the panellists. The event follows a visit to India by the minister, which was facilitated by AIBC.
The Minister emphasized the importance of education as a key to unlocking opportunities and fostering multiculturalism. She highlighted the role of education in enabling children to participate in sports from an early age, with a focus on future Olympic aspirations. She highlighted several positive outcomes from her recent visit to India, including the upcoming visit by a FICCI delegation to Brisbane, exploring VET delivery in schools and strengthening collaboration in K-12 education.
AIBC thanks our sponsors, EY, Queensford College and Axis Institute.
The panel discussion was facilitated by Amritha Zachariah, Education & Skills Industry Chair for AIBC. Panelists included Brett Lovegrove, Pro-Vice Chancellor (Global Partnerships), University of Queensland; Dr Sarah Richardson, Executive Director, Asia Education Foundation (University of Melbourne); and Shashank Vuppala, Associate Director – Strategy and Growth, Queensford College & Axis Institute.
Brett Lovegrove, Pro-Vice Chancellor (Global Partnerships), University of Queensland highlighted Queensland’s favorable conditions for collaboration, including a supportive state structure, complementary institutions, and a thriving education ecosystem. He stressed the significance of people-to-people links, partnerships, and perseverance as the foundation for success. Brett emphasized the need to change the narrative, capitalize on employment opportunities, and leverage the growing diaspora to enhance collaboration.
AIBC’s Education & Skills Chapter Head, Amritha Zachariah noted the growing importance of India as a trading partner with Queensland. She highlighted that with the recent signing of the AI-ECTA, the Indian National Education Policy; refreshed Australian International Education Strategy and a review of the Australia India Economic Strategy, there is significant opportunity to build deep and beneficial relationships to meet the education and training needs of both Australia and India.
Dr Sarah Richardson, Executive Director, Asia Education Foundation emphasized the the importance of providing knowledge, skills, and attributes required to effectively engage with India. Sarah aptly stated, “If we sow the seeds of an acacia, why would we expect a mango tree?” indicating the importance of aligning efforts with desired outcomes.
Shashank Vuppala, Associate Director – Strategy and Growth, Queensford College & Axis Institute.
focused on the need for offshore engagement, creating a conducive environment for skills training, and leveraging Queensland’s strengths to address common challenges. He highlighted the abundance of opportunities and the importance of scalability in offshore delivery.