New Delhi: Newcastle University (NCL) reaffirmed its commitment to fostering strong academic and research collaborations in India through a series of high-impact engagements led by Vice-Chancellor and President, Prof. Chris Day. The delegation visiting India encompassed strategic partnerships with premier institutions, alumni networking events, and key discussions on educational collaboration and innovation.
Strengthening Ties with IIT Delhi and OP Jindal: Newcastle University discussed with Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Delhi, a Joint Centre of Climate Change and Resilient Infrastructure, which will facilitate faculty and student exchanges, joint research initiatives, and academic collaborations. This will cement NCL’s long-standing partnership with IIT-D, established particularly through the GCRF Water Security and Sustainable Development Hub.
Prof. Day also met with Prof. C. Raj Kumar, Founding Vice-Chancellor of O.P. Jindal Global University (JGU), to further build on an existing Memorandum of Understanding (MoU). The discussions focused on expanding collaborations in law, student exchange programs, and pathways for international legal education.
Engaging with the Janya Collective: Newcastle University also met with the Janya Collective; a social enterprise dedicated to improving water security in the National Capital Territory (NCT) of Delhi. As a key partner of NCL’s GCRF Water Security Hub, the Janya Collective has played a vital role in promoting sustainable water management solutions. Prof. Day and his team explored community-based interventions implemented during the Water Security Hub project and reaffirmed NCL’s commitment to supporting innovative and localized water security strategies.
Alumni Events: Celebrating NCL’s Impact: Newcastle University hosted in-person alumni networking events in New Delhi and Mumbai, marking the launch of the first dedicated NCL alumni network. The event celebrated NCL’s achievements in India and outlined its future ambitions. Distinguished alumnus Rakshit Jagdale (MBA, 2002), Managing Director of Amrut Distilleries, shared insights on how his NCL contributed to his growth and success.
The event also provided a platform for alumni to reconnect and engage with the university’s vision for deeper collaboration in India. NCL also launched a new scholarship offer for Indian students applying for the 2025 academic intake at these events.
Newcastle University alumnus Mr. Kinner N. Sacchdev, Co-Founder and CEO of Knorish, speaking on behalf of the North India Alumni Network leaders, added, “Throughout my entrepreneurial journey, I’ve learned that success is rarely a solo endeavor. People invest in those they trust, support those they connect with, and open doors for those they share a bond with. As Newcastle alumni, we are part of a powerful network that extends far beyond our time at university—it’s a community built on shared experiences, values, and aspirations. I’ve seen how a single message, a chance meeting, or a small act of generosity within this network can transform careers. The key is to approach networking with purpose, build meaningful relationships, and add value first. When we do that, we don’t just create opportunities for ourselves—we create a ripple effect of success for others.”
Newcastle University’s delegation visit to India underscores its commitment to building sustainable academic partnerships, fostering innovation, and enhancing student and faculty exchange opportunities. As the university continues to expand its presence in India, these collaborations will play a pivotal role in shaping the future of global education and research.
