Lucknow's Dr Shakuntala Misra National Rehabilitation University (DSMNRU) is poised to mark a significant milestone in its academic journey by preparing to welcome its inaugural batch of international students for doctoral programmes. This strategic move aligns with the national agenda to position India as a premier global education destination.
New International Office to Facilitate Global Admissions
The university has taken a concrete step towards this goal by establishing a dedicated Office of International Student Relations. This office will serve as the central hub for all foreign student initiatives. Its primary responsibilities include initiating dialogues with various embassies, ensuring streamlined hostel and accommodation facilities for incoming scholars, and developing robust cultural ties to foster an inclusive campus environment.
Elaborating on the varsity's vision, DSMNRU spokesperson Yashwant Virodai stated that the initiative is part of a broader mandate. "We are establishing and enhancing our International Student Offices (ISOs) as mandated by the UGC and the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020," he said. The core objectives are to boost the university's global outreach, promote India as a vibrant study hub, and coordinate comprehensive support for foreign students—spanning admissions, visa processes, and grievance redressal.
Aligning with National Goals and Building Partnerships
The spokesperson further highlighted that these offices are crucial for welcoming and seamlessly integrating international students into the academic fabric. They will also handle the university's branding abroad and facilitate meaningful academic partnerships with institutions worldwide. This development is in sync with India's ambitious goal to attract a larger number of foreign students to its higher education ecosystem.
Virodai also pointed out that the new regulations could pave the way for foreign universities to set up branch campuses, further enriching the educational landscape. The proactive approach has already begun yielding interest. The university has reportedly been contacted by prospective students from Thailand and several other countries who have expressed keen interest in joining the PhD programmes offered by DSMNRU.
A Step Towards Internationalization of Indian Campuses
This move by DSMNRU signifies a growing trend among Indian universities to internationalize their campuses and curricula. By actively recruiting foreign PhD scholars, the institution not only diversifies its student community but also enhances cross-cultural academic exchange, potentially elevating the quality and global relevance of its research output. The establishment of a dedicated office underscores a structured, long-term commitment to making the university an attractive and supportive destination for scholars from across the world.
