The Indian Institute of Foreign Trade (IIFT), one of India’s premier business schools under the Ministry of Commerce and Industry, is set to open its first international campus in Dubai. This move marks a significant milestone in the globalization of Indian higher education and is seen as a strategic extension of the institute’s core mission—to build global leaders in international trade and business.
Aligned with NEP 2020’s Vision
The establishment of IIFT’s Dubai campus aligns closely with the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020, which emphasizes the internationalization of Indian education. The policy encourages Indian institutions of national importance to expand their global footprint by setting up campuses abroad, enhancing cross-border academic collaborations, and promoting India as a knowledge hub.
By taking its curriculum beyond national borders, IIFT aims to deliver world-class education in trade, economics, and global business to a broader demographic, while fostering cross-cultural academic exchange.
Strategic Location and Purpose
Dubai, a global business hub and home to a significant Indian diaspora, offers a strategic location for IIFT’s first overseas venture. The campus will cater to both Indian students abroad and international learners, particularly from the Middle East, North Africa (MENA) region, and South Asia.
The Dubai campus is expected to offer specialized programs in:
- International Business
- Trade Policy and Strategy
- Global Supply Chain Management
- Foreign Trade Analytics
- Cross-border Financial Practices
These programs are designed to equip students with skills relevant to global trade dynamics, international regulations, and market practices.
Boosting India’s Educational and Economic Diplomacy
This initiative is not only an academic expansion but also a move that supports India’s economic diplomacy. By setting up shop in Dubai, IIFT reinforces India’s intent to play a larger role in shaping global trade education and policy thought leadership.
The campus is expected to:
- Promote bilateral academic partnerships with Gulf-based universities and organizations.
- Provide a platform for Indian faculty to engage in global research.
- Support executive education and short-term training programs for professionals in the region.
- Enhance opportunities for student and faculty exchange programs.
A Step Toward Global Recognition
IIFT’s expansion is a part of a growing trend among Indian institutions, including IITs and IIMs, exploring the possibility of international campuses. The Dubai campus will help IIFT gain global visibility, compete with leading international business schools, and attract a diverse student base.
It also complements the Indian government’s broader mission to position India as a preferred destination for higher education exports, alongside strengthening the soft power of Indian academic institutions globally.
Conclusion
IIFT’s upcoming campus in Dubai represents a transformative step in India's higher education sector. With a focus on international business and trade, the institute is set to provide world-class education to global learners while advancing India’s academic and strategic interests abroad. The initiative not only strengthens India’s educational influence in the Gulf region but also reinforces its commitment to producing globally competent professionals for the evolving landscape of international commerce
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