Dr. Plouff and Dr. Singh at the Safdarjung Tomb in Delhi and pictured with leadership teams at (from top) Alliance University, NIIT University, and Manav Rachna International Institute of Research & Studies. UIndy Expands Global Reach with New Partnerships in India
As part of a bold strategic vision to expand its global footprint, the University of Indianapolis has recently formed a series of international partnerships with leading universities in India. President Dr. Tanuja Singh and Provost Dr. Chris Plouff traveled to India in fall 2024, where they signed four memoranda of understanding (MOUs) with highly ranked institutions: Alliance University, the FORE School of Management, NIIT University, and Manav Rachna University. Each partnership will open doors to collaborative academic programming, faculty and student exchanges, and joint research initiatives. “These institutions share our commitment to experiential learning, innovation, and student success,” said Singh. “India’s focus on education, combined with its dynamic economy and youthful population, makes it an ideal partner for UIndy’s global engagement
efforts.” India, the world’s fifth largest economy, experienced a 7.6% GDP growth rate in 2023—significantly outpacing many developed nations. With over half its 1.4 billion people under the age of 30 and a surge in public and private investment in education, India is quickly becoming a hub for academic and professional opportunity. During their visit, Singh and Plouff observed strong ties between Indian universities and the industries they serve. “We were struck by the emphasis on project-based learning and internships,” said Plouff. “There’s a natural alignment with our own emphasis on experiential education and preparing students for real- world impact.” The agreements will create pathways for joint undergraduate and graduate programs, faculty-led research collaborations, and training opportunities.
Further initiatives with each university are already in development. UIndy is also working with the Thapar Institute of Engineering & Technology to develop liberal arts programs tailored for a globalized world and recently signed an MOU to further partnership opportunities. “These partnerships reflect not only academic excellence but also a shared belief in the transformative power of higher education,” said Singh. “By learning from each other, we can provide life-changing opportunities for our students and faculty— and contribute meaningfully to a more connected world.” The University’s growing presence in India marks a significant step toward fulfilling its strategic goal of global engagement, enriching the UIndy community with new perspectives and possibilities.
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MAGAZINE // SPRING 2025
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