INDIA: Doors opening for Australian universities

Despite diplomatic tensions running high this year after a number of Indian students were assaulted while studying in Australia, the nation's universities may now be invited to set up shop in India, writes Brigid Andersen for News Online. Deputy Prime Minister Julia Gillard has been in India and last week met with Minister for Human Resource Development, Shri Kapil Sibal, who touted a plan for Australian universities to open campuses in India.

Almost 60% of India's population is under the age of 25, however there are only places for 7% of college-age Indians in post-high school institutions.

Gillard's office released a statement saying the prospect of a new partnership for Australian universities is an important step. "The Indian education system is growing rapidly as a result of government reforms and population growth. This new dialogue creates a major opportunity for Australia and Australian education institutions to be partners and collaborators in this growing sector," the statement said.
Full report on the ABC News site