May 16, 2023

Indian Institute of Technology Madras to Establish First East African Campus in Zanzibar

I Indian Institute of Technology Madras (IIT Madras), a renowned educational institution in India, is expanding its global reach with the launch of its first international campus in Zanzibar, Tanzania.

The move comes as part of India's efforts to embrace transnational education and cater to the growing demand for quality education in Africa. The campus is set to open in October this year, offering programs in data science and artificial intelligence to 70 students initially, with plans to introduce additional disciplines in the future.

According to Tanzanian columnist and technology consultant Charles Makakala, "Zanzibar's historical significance as a trade hub or its current attempt to reposition itself as an international business center may have influenced the decision. In any case, I don't see why it wouldn't work: Zanzibar offers both the tranquillity of a relatively small town, allowing students to maintain focus on their studies, and access to the rich Swahili culture, which would enrich their experiences."

…IIT Madras' decision to open its first campus in Zanzibar marks a significant milestone in the institution's global expansion efforts... with a focus on data science and artificial intelligence, the campus will provide African students with access to world-class education...

While the tuition fees for the courses have not been disclosed yet, IIT Madras Director V Kamakoti confirmed that a team of five professors from the institution had visited Tanzania earlier this year to finalize plans for the campus.

Following the launch of the East African campus, IIT Madras has also announced plans to establish additional branches in Abu Dhabi, UAE, and Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. These initiatives highlight India's commitment to internationalization and its aim to attract more international students.

IIT Madras' decision to open its first campus in Zanzibar marks a significant milestone in the institution's global expansion efforts. With a focus on data science and artificial intelligence, the campus will provide African students with access to world-class education.

As India looks to strengthen its ties with Africa and leverage transnational education, this move exemplifies the growing collaboration between nations and the pursuit of academic excellence on an international scale.

Moreover, the establishment of the East African campus aligns with the trend of Indian universities venturing into foreign territories, following the recent inauguration of India's first foreign campus in Uganda by the National Forensic Sciences University.

Posted in News and tagged News, Indian Institute of Technology Madras, Tanzania, Zanzibar, East African Campus, International Students
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