During the annual university day celebrations at the Vellore Institute of Technology in Chennai, Katrina Knapp, the vice-consul at the Australian Consulate General in Chennai, highlighted the collaborative efforts between India and Australia across various sectors, facilitated by support from Australian missions.
She emphasized that the partnership between the two countries is founded on a mutual commitment to innovation, curiosity, and the pursuit of new frontiers. “Australia has introduced Aus$20 million in fellowships, scholarships, and research grants through the MAITRI initiative,” she noted.
Dr. G. Viswanathan, founder and chancellor of VIT, remarked that “Australia’s per capita income has reached Aus$ 68,000, attributed to the nation investing five percent of its GDP in education. Their gross enrollment ratio in higher education stands at 100 percent, comparable to that of South Korea.”
He further stated, “India’s new education policy advocates for an investment of six percent of GDP in education. Both the central and state governments in India should prioritize increased funding for education.”
Sudeep Kunnumal, the chief human resources officer-designate at Tata Consultancy Services, expressed confidence that the students would bring pride to their faculty and VIT Chennai through their achievements.
During the event, Dr. Viswanathan presented awards to the best outgoing students, while Dr. G.V. Selvan, vice-president of VIT, recognized the accomplishments of the students.
