INDIA 10 STATES REPORT GUJARAT
Overview
Gujarat stands at the threshold of becoming a global leader, underpinned by its economic prosperity, entrepreneurial spirit, industrial development, and educational potential.
The state boasts a population characterised by high income and significant economic aspirations, making it an attractive destination for Foreign Educational Institutes (FEIs) and investors. Gujarat’s proactive government further enhances this appeal through strategic initiatives and policies.
The historic capital city of Gandhinagar is home to leading educational institutions, forming a cornerstone of the state’s academic landscape. Alongside Gandhinagar, Ahmedabad serves as a pivotal centre for policy-making and economic activities. Complementing these cities is the emerging Gujarat
finance and technology. Together, these three cities form the dynamic tricity of Gujarat, fostering a robust environment for education and industry.
Additionally, Gujarat’s extensive diaspora network, which constitutes 33% of the Indian diaspora globally, spans 129 out of 190 countries. This significant international presence not only bolsters Gujarat’s global connections but also opens avenues for academic and trade collaborations.
Gujarat represents a fertile ground for establishing and expanding educational ventures, supported by a vibrant economy and a globally connected community.
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Literacy Rate:
Gujarat has a high literacy rate of 78% which is above the national average of 74%
Economic Growth Rate:
» Labelled the “Growth Engine of India”
» GDP growth rate: 10.2% in 2022-23
» 8.20% of India’s GDP 04 03 05 02
» State with 4th largest GDP
Industrial and Service Sector Infrustructure:
» Supports automobile electronics, electrical machinery, pharmaceuticals, basic metals, IT, ITES, and financial services
Global Exposure and Innovation:
» Global outlook and culture of innovation
» Home to GIFT City - India’s first operational smart city, international finance centre, and hub for startups and innovation
Overseas Education Growth:
» 4th in sending students overseas
» 8% share in students studying overseas
State Highlights— What you’ll discover in this report
Robust Education Landscape
» Universities - 91
» Colleges - 2395
» Medical Colleges - 41
» Nursing Colleges - 80+
» Engineering Colleges - 282
Multilingual Advantage
» Ensures a conducive environment
» Cross cultural exchange
» Caters to students from all over the country
Alumni Success Stories
» Largest diaspora group
» Global leaders, entrepreneurs
» Partnerships and knowledge exchange
International School and Curriculum
» Offering IB and CAIE
» Well-prepared for International Education
Gateway to West Asia
» Expanding across the region
» 33% of India’s exports are from Gujarat
Fee Structure and Affordability
» USD $14,978 to USD $17,972 for Engineering
» USD $29,954 to USD $59,908 for Medical
Thriving Metropolis
» Major textile and pharma hub
» UNESCO heritage city
Supportive Government Policies
» Investment-friendly policies
» Encourages foreign collaborations
Gujarat: The Next Frontier for International Education and Collaboration
Gujarat is emerging as a major market for overseas education recruiters and Foreign Education Institutes.
Projections indicate that by 2025, Gujarat will surpass Maharashtra as the largest study-abroad market in the West Indian region. This development highlights the state’s growing importance in the field of international education.
As the epicentre of economic activity in India and a gateway to West Asia with high connectivity and international trade, Gujarat offers a unique proposition for educational collaboration. It is the only state in India eligible to set up branch campuses of international universities within GIFT City. GIFT City, India’s first operational greenfield smart city and international financial services centre, is poised to become a hub for world-class education.
The 2022-23 Union Budget introduced a proposal to allow top-tier foreign universities and institutions to offer courses related to financial management, fintech, science, technology, engineering, and mathematics within GIFT City. This initiative has already attracted Deakin University and the University of Wollongong from Australia, both set to commence their programmes in GIFT City in June 2024. Deakin University received over 500 applications for only 100 seats, and Wollongong University also saw a strong application pool, reflecting the high interest in the quality and courses offered by these institutions.
The establishment of these universities underscores the growing interest in Gujarat as an educational destination. Deakin University’s and the University of Wollongong’s initiatives in India are expected to enhance financial options and foster economic growth by providing educational opportunities. Wollongong’s agreement with GIFT City involves setting up a teaching and research facility, either independently or in collaboration. Deakin University plans to invest AUS $4 million in establishing a branch campus within the financial services centre.
Moreover, NSDC International, focussed on skill development and building industry-relevant skills, has chosen to partner with Deakin University, recognising its nearly three decades of engagement with India and its rank among the top 1 percent of universities globally.
Gujarat represents a strategic opportunity to expand educational ventures and collaborations. The state’s robust economic environment, coupled with its unique infrastructure like GIFT City, makes it an ideal location for fostering international educational partnerships and driving economic development through education.
Addressable Market
Gujarat’s per capita Gross State Domestic Product (GSDP) is higher than the national average, indicating a high level of income and purchasing power among its residents, particularly the urban population, which comprises 43% of the state’s total population.
College Density
GUJARAT AVERAGE:
32 COLLEGES PER 100,000 PEOPLE
This economic advantage makes Gujarat a lucrative market for higher education services.
The state has a significant number of private colleges offering various courses, with higher enrollment rates and better placement opportunities compared to public colleges. This trend indicates a strong preference among students for private education, highlighting their willingness to pay a premium for quality education. In fact, 75% of students in Gujarat choose private colleges over government ones, with 470,386 students enrolled in private institutions compared to 291,877 in government colleges. Out of 91 universities in the state, 47 are private, while only 29 are government-run.
NATIONAL AVERAGE:
30 COLLEGES PER 100,000 PEOPLE
Despite these promising figures, Gujarat’s Gross Enrollment Ratio (GER) for students aged 18-20 is 24, which is below the national average of 28.4. The state’s Performance Grading Index (PGI) for 2021-22 is 599 out of 1000, placing Gujarat fifth among the 10 states and Union Territories under consideration.
These statistics underscore the potential for growth and the need for targeted investment in the education sector. The demand for private education, coupled with the state’s economic prosperity, presents significant opportunities for establishing and expanding higher education institutions. Addressing the GER gap and improving the PGI score could further enhance Gujarat’s attractiveness as an education hub.
Conducive Environment to Transfer
Educational Environment Financial Environment
Universities
Bn (2019-23), Second
Bn (2023-24),
*Provide
Emerging
Educational Hubs in Gujarat
Gujarat is home to several burgeoning educational hubs, each contributing uniquely to the state’s educational landscape and economic prosperity.
Established Hubs
Ahmedabad: The largest city in Gujarat, Ahmedabad is a vibrant center of commerce and education. It hosts premier institutions like the Indian Institute of Management (IIM), National Institute of Design (NID), and Indian Institute of Technology Gandhinagar (IIT). With a GDP of USD $47 billion, contributing 0.79% to India’s total GDP, and a per capita income of approximately USD $2,590, Ahmedabad is the industrial center of Western India, second only to Mumbai. The city’s robust textile and chemical industries offer numerous job opportunities, enhancing its appeal as an educational hub.
Surat: Known as the “Diamond City of India,” Surat boasts a GDP of USD $40 Billion, contributing 0.68% to India’s GDP, with a per capita income of around USD $2,530. The city is renowned for its rapidly growing IT and energy sectors and its dominance in the diamond market. Surat’s focus on vocational and technical education supports its economic sectors, making it a significant educational hub.
Rajkot: This city is a leader in engineering, technical, and agricultural education. Rajkot’s emphasis on these fields aligns with its local industries, providing specialised educational opportunities that cater to the region’s economic needs.
Vadodara: Known for its focus on fine arts and cultural education, Vadodara enriches Gujarat’s educational landscape with its emphasis on creativity and cultural studies.
Emerging Hubs
Vapi, Anand, and Jamnagar: These cities are rising as new educational hubs in Gujarat. With self-sufficient local economies, renowned educational institutions, international collaborations, and well-developed infrastructure for connectivity, they are poised for significant growth.
GIFT City: India’s first operational greenfield smart city and international financial services centre, GIFT City is positioned as a global financial hub with world-class infrastructure. The GIFT IFSC, a special economic zone, currently houses 580 operational entities, with total banking assets estimated at over USD $52 Billion and about USD 25 billion in committed investments from 80 funds.
Dholera City: Located 100 km from Ahmedabad, the Dholera City Special Investment Region (SIR) is a greenfield industrial smart city covering 920 sq. km, with urban development spanning 567.39 sq. km. It encompasses residential sectors, commercial quarters, financial, manufacturing and processing zones, and recreation areas. These developments present immense opportunities for establishing world-class higher education institutions.
Gujarat’s blend of established and emerging educational hubs, coupled with its economic vitality, makes it an ideal location for expanding educational ventures and fostering international partnerships.
Overview and Heat Map of Gujarat
Jamnagar
Population: 670,000
Oil Refinery, Salt, bauxite, and Brass industry hub with strategic importance
Saurashtra University with Reliance Industries, Sinhar Foundation, Baptist Hospitals of Southeast Texas, Trinity Health, The University of Queensland, Australia
Saurashtra University, Gujarat Ayurved University, Dhirubhai Ambani Institute of Information and Communication Technology
Rajkot
Population: 4,600,000
Jewelry, handicrafts, engineering and automotive sectors
University of California, Polish Academy of Sciences, and Curtin
Marwadi University, RK University
Surat Population: 8,900,000
IT, renewable energy, pharmaceutical, chemicals and petrochemicals products
Rennes School of Business, Nysa University of Applied Sciences, and ESIC Business and Marketing School
Auro University, P. P. Savani University, Sardar Vallabnbhai National Institute of Technology, Uka Tarsadia University, Veer Narmad South Gujarat University
Heat Map Key
School Education Population Universities Collaboration Industry
Vapi
Population: 2,300,000
Industrial, plastics, chemical, paper, textiles, and pharmaceutical hub
Vapi Institute of Engineering and Technology with Nauki.com and Entrepreneuship Development Institute of India
Sardar Patel University of Science and Technology, Vapi Institute of Engineering and Technology, Plastindia International University and ICFAI University
Ahmedabad
Population: 8,800,000
Textiles, pharmaceuticals, engineering, business hub
Gujarat Biotech University & University of Edinburgh, Nirma University & Rennes School of Business, Rai University & Curtin University
Government: Indian Institute of Management (IIM), National Institute of Design (NID), IITGandhi Nagar, Gujarat University
Private: MICA, Ahmedabad University, Nirma University, Parul University
Anand
Population: 270,000
Known for Dairy and Food Processing Capital, notable for cooperative movement - Amul brand
Institute of Rural Management Anand (IRMA) and Anand Agricultural University. Sargar Vallabhbhai Patel Institute of Technology
IRMA with Australia India Water Centre (AIWC), International Crops Research Institute for the Semi-Arid Tropics.
Vadodara
Population: 2,300,000
Engineering, jewelry and silk hub & chemical industries
Maharaja Sayajirao University of Baroda and the University of Ferrara, Italy, the University of Wisconsin, and the University of South Australia, Australia
The Maharaja Sayajirao University of Baroda, Navrachna University
Ability to Transfer: Academic Quality
Presence of International Curriculum Schools
Gujarat hosts a significant number of international curriculum schools, offering programmes such as the International Baccalaureate (IB) and the Cambridge Assessment International Education (CAIE). These schools ensure that students are well-prepared for international universities by adhering to the same rigorous curriculum and assessment standards. Tuition fees for these international schools range from USD $3,597 to USD $11,992, reflecting the quality and global relevance of the education provided.
The Study in Gujarat Programme
The Government of Gujarat’s Education Department has launched the “Study in Gujarat” initiative to position the state as a premier education hub, attracting students from across India and around the world. Partnering with twenty-two top universities, the programme aims to host 10,000 foreign nationals by 2022, showcasing Gujarat’s strengths in higher education.
The “Study in Gujarat” programme collaborates with universities renowned for their academic excellence, research capabilities, and strong placement records. These institutions offer a wide range of programmes, from diploma to doctorate levels, catering to diverse student interests and career goals. Additionally, Gujarat is home to three
Institutes of National Importance, recognised by the Ministry of Human Resource Development for their exceptional educational standards. Several prestigious autonomous institutes also have the authority to evaluate and confer their own degrees, further enhancing the state’s educational landscape.
These initiatives underline Gujarat’s commitment to providing high-quality education and fostering international collaborations. The presence of international curriculum schools and the proactive “Study in Gujarat” programme highlight the state’s potential as a global education destination, offering ample opportunities for investment and partnership in the education sector.
Reputed Higher and Secondary Education Institutes as per National Institutional Ranking Framework (NIRF)
Institutions in Top 30 NIRF Ranking
Institutions in Top 100 NIRF Ranking Universities: 1 Overall Rankings: 2
Institutions in Top 40 NIRF Ranking
Institutions in Top 50 NIRF Ranking
Gujarat’s infrastructure meets the needs of its student populace, particularly in the secondary and higher secondary education sectors, which are dominated by the private sector.
The state is also known for housing premier institutes such as the Indian Institute of Management (IIM) in Ahmedabad, the National Institute of Fashion Technology (NIFT), and the National Institute of Design (NID). Additionally, Gujarat excels in infrastructure planning and pharmaceuticals, along with conventional fields like management, engineering, education, pharmacy, law, and arts.
Reputed Higher and Secondary Education Institutes (as per National Institutional Ranking Framework (NIRF) Ranking
Openness to Internationalisation & Collaboration Government Commitment to Education & Entrepreneurship
Gujarat demonstrates a robust commitment to education and entrepreneurship, evident through significant budget allocations, policy initiatives, and institutional support. The state has launched numerous schemes and programmes aimed at enhancing educational and entrepreneurial environments, such as the Mukhyamantri Yuva Swavalamban Yojana (Prime Minister Youth Self Reliance Program), the Shala Praveshotsav (School Special Enrolment Drive), and Gunotsav (Celebrating Quality Education). Additionally, Gujarat has established various departments and agencies like the Department
of Science and Technology, the Climate Change Department, and the Knowledge Consortium of Gujarat to promote and facilitate educational development.
According to the latest Global Entrepreneurship Monitor (GEM) report for 2022-23, Gujarat’s entrepreneurship sector has shown remarkable resilience. The state ranks highly in indices such as ‘perceived opportunity for starting a business’ (90% compared to the national average of 75%) and ‘perceived capabilities required to start a new business’ (94% compared to the national average of 78%).
The Vibrant Gujarat Global Summit, a prominent government initiative, recently concluded its 10th edition in Gandhinagar.
Since its inception in 2003, this biennial event has aimed to bolster Gujarat’s appeal as an investment destination and promote cross-sector collaboration. The latest summit, concluding on January 12, 2024, saw the signing of Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs) for 41,299 projects, representing potential investment proposals worth USD $316 billion.
Global Collaborations with Universities
Gujarat’s educational institutions are increasingly open to internationalisation and collaboration, particularly with foreign universities. Private, nationally significant, and state universities in Gujarat actively seek partnerships to launch various programmes. While private universities focus on MoUs, student exchanges, and faculty exchanges, public and government universities tend to emphasise grantbased partnerships to foster research, although they remain open to diverse forms of collaboration.
In alignment with the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020, Gujarat’s universities are increasingly prioritising internationalisation. Numerous institutions have signed MoUs with foreign universities, with one university securing over 100 international partnerships. There is a growing interest among students in Dual Degree Programmes, prompting universities to expand collaborations to offer such initiatives. This strategic shift aims to provide students with diverse learning experiences and enhance their global employability, thereby positioning Gujarat as a hub for academic excellence and global engagement.
What’s Next?
For stakeholders in international higher education, these developments in Gujarat offer significant opportunities:
Collaborative Research Initiatives:
» Institutions can explore grant-based research partnerships, leveraging Gujarat’s strong institutional support and commitment to education and entrepreneurship.
Student and Faculty Exchange Programmes:
» Universities can expand their MoUs to include comprehensive student and faculty exchange programs, enhancing cross-cultural academic experiences.
Dual Degree Programmes:
» With a rising interest in dual degree programs, there is a potential to develop innovative joint degree offerings that cater to global career aspirations.
Investment in Educational Infrastructure:
» The outcomes of the Vibrant Gujarat Global Summit highlight Gujarat’s potential as a fertile ground for investment in educational infrastructure and related sectors.
Policy Advocacy and Development:
» Engaging with Gujarat’s proactive governmental departments could yield collaborative policy development initiatives that benefit both local and international educational landscapes. These steps can enhance global educational standards, foster innovation, and create a mutually beneficial ecosystem for international stakeholders and Gujarat’s academic and entrepreneurial communities.
Conducive Environment for Internationalisation of Higher Education Institutions (HEIs)
Gujarat’s Robust Entrepreneurship Sector
Gujarat boasts a thriving startup ecosystem, fueled by its strong manufacturing base, access to capital and mentorship, and a culture of risk-taking. Renowned institutions like IIM Ahmedabad and NID play pivotal roles in nurturing talent, while organisations such as DevX and TiE actively foster entrepreneurship. This environment offers unparalleled support for startups to flourish. Additionally, the state’s rich pool of skilled professionals and a tradition of innovation solidify Gujarat as a beacon for aspiring entrepreneurs seeking success across diverse sectors.
State’s Higher Education Goals for the Next 5-10 Years
The government of Gujarat is committed to advancing higher education through strategic initiatives and long-term goals. Key priorities include:
Implementation of a Student Startup Policy:
Encouraging student-led startups to integrate entrepreneurial skills with academic learning.
Enhancement of Higher Technical Education: Plans are underway to elevate the standards of technical education, ensuring that graduates are well-equipped for the evolving job market.
Human Capital Development:
Focused efforts on developing human capital in various fields to meet future industry demands and global standards.
Revamped and Promising Education Infrastructure
The Government of Gujarat aims to establish the state as an education hub for both domestic and global students, fostering a diverse learning community through its 22 Partner Universities.
These institutions emphasise industry partnerships, providing industry-oriented learning and research focussed education. Notable universities like Maharaja Sayajirao University of Baroda and Gujarat University are integral to this vision, reflected in their impressive NIRF rankings and NAAC accreditations.
Key aspects of Gujarat’s education infrastructure include:
Industry Partnerships: Facilitating practical learning experiences and collaborative research projects with industry leaders.
Stronger Governance and E-Governance Initiatives
Gujarat stands out for its progressive governance and e-governance policies, leading the way in digital administration. Recognised as one of India’s most e-prepared states by independent agencies, Gujarat’s government continues to promote innovative e-governance initiatives, highlighting the growing importance of digital solutions in public administration.
The state’s commitment to e-governance includes:
Digital Services: Providing efficient, transparent, and accessible government services through digital platforms.
Innovative Policies: Implementing forward-thinking policies that leverage technology to improve governance and public service delivery.
E-Preparedness: Maintaining a high level of readiness to adopt and integrate new technologies in governance.
Key Insights and Actionable Recommendations for International Providers
Establishing Branch Campuses in GIFT City
• Opportunity: GIFT City offers a compliant and attractive destination for international providers to set up branch campuses.
• Recommendation: Develop diverse programmes in fields such as financial management, fintech, and STEM to attract students and meet industry demands.
• Action: Engage with local regulatory bodies to understand compliance requirements and tailor offerings to align with regional economic priorities.
Fostering Academic Research Partnerships
• Action: Identify key research areas of mutual interest and leverage existing academic networks to foster partnerships. 2
• Opportunity: Gujarat’s universities are keen on enhancing their research capabilities through international collaboration.
• Recommendation: Initiate articulation programmes and academic research partnerships as a first step towards establishing a base in India.
3
Exploring Transnational Education (TNE) Initiatives
• Opportunity: TNE initiatives can significantly enhance educational outreach and global competitiveness.
• Recommendation: Explore Joint Masters/Bachelors Degrees, Twinning programmes, Online Courses, and branch campuses in Gujarat.
• Action: Assess the feasibility and demand for these programmes in Gujarat and collaborate with local institutions to implement them effectively.
4
Enhancing International Collaboration in Teaching
• Opportunity: With 91 functioning universities, Gujarat has significant potential for international collaboration in teaching.
• Recommendation: Prioritise partnerships that enhance teaching quality through exchange programmes and a culture of internationalisation.
• Action: Develop and implement programmes that facilitate faculty and student exchanges, joint curriculum development, and international teaching standards.
Offering Tailored Training Programmes
• Opportunity: Tailored training programmes can improve job prospects and career paths for students, harnessing the potential of the best Indian talent.
• Recommendation: Design and offer training programmes that address the specific needs of students, focusing on enhancing their skills and employability.
• Action: Collaborate with local industry leaders to identify skill gaps and develop training modules that equip students with the necessary competencies for the job market. 5
GIFT City represents a prime opportunity for international university collaboration in Gujarat. Leading the way, Deakin University and the University of Wollongong from Australia have already established independent campuses, and several others are currently in discussions with GIFT City authorities. These universities have the potential to attract both Indian and international students to their stateof-the-art campuses. As one of India’s most industrialised states, Gujarat offers extensive opportunities for partnerships with local industries. Furthermore, many students from Gujarat choose to pursue higher education abroad, particularly in the UK, US, and Australia, driven by personal and family aspirations for international education. Gujarat is also home to specialised private universities, such as CEPT University for Architecture and Planning, where niche partnerships can be explored to enhance academic and research collaborations.”
Prof. Dinesh Shah & Prof. Meera Shah, Prof. Emeritus
CEPT University
