IIT Madras set to create history by establishing an international campus in Zanzibar-Tanzania
IIT Madras, the highest-ranked educational institute in India, has achieved a significant milestone by becoming the first IIT to establish an international campus in Zanzibar, Tanzania. The formalities for this campus were completed with the signing of an MoU between India and Tanzania.
The Zanzibar Campus of IIT Madras (https://www.iitm.ac.in/zanzibar/) will be situated on Zanzibar Island, off the East African mainland, establishing a remarkable and transformative educational partnership between India and Zanzibar-Tanzania.
Initially, faculty will be deputed from IIT Madras or recruited from India for this campus. Simultaneously, efforts are in progress to develop local talent to serve as faculty. The Government of India is providing numerous scholarships to Tanzanian/Zanzibar natives for various degree programs at IIT Madras in Chennai, Commencing from July 2023.
IIT Madras International Campus Zanibar -Tanzania
IIT Madras is all set to inaugurate its first international campus in Africa, making it the first Indian Institute of Technology to do so. The new campus will be situated in Zanzibar, Tanzania, and classes are scheduled to commence in October. V Kamakoti, the director of IIT Madras, unveiled these plans during his speech at the 64th Institute Day. Earlier, in February, a team of five professors from IIT Madras visited Tanzania and engaged in discussions with officials to pave the way for this new campus.
Partnership of IIT Madras international campus with Zanzibar-Tanzania
The NEP 2020 aims to foster opportunities for the expansion of Indian higher education beyond its borders. Consequently, the Ministry of Education, Government of India, received enthusiastic interest from the corresponding Ministry in the Government of Tanzania.
Following several delegation visits from both sides, they deemed the partnership to be ideal, leading to the establishment of the first international campus of an IIT in Zanzibar, Tanzania.
Professor Preeti Aghalayam, the Dean of the School of Science & Engineering and Director-in-charge of the Zanzibar campus at IIT Madras, emphasized the significant impact of this international campus.
She conveyed a sense of pride in introducing IIT Madras' extensive educational and research expertise to East Africa. The Zanzibar campus is meticulously planned, designed to resemble Madras with its lush natural surroundings, state-of-the-art classrooms, laboratories, research facilities, and innovation centers.
IIT Madras international campus in Zanzibar-Tanzania Entrance Process
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The Office of Global Engagement, IIT Madras, will coordinate the student entrance process.
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The process includes a screening test developed by faculty experts at IIT Madras and an interview.
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The admission process is based on the IITM Senate-approved process for international students.
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IITM Zanzibar campus leverages the expertise of IIT Madras faculty in Integrative education, research, and technological innovation.
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The campus is on an accelerated plan of development and growth.
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It has strong support from the local government.
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The campus will be one-of-a-kind in an international setting.
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Accommodation for students will be provided in dormitories.
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Dining facilities will be available on the campus.
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Scholarships are being worked out with various stakeholders to support deserving students with tuition costs.
The establishment of the inaugural Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) in Africa holds significance for various reasons:
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Enhancing India-Africa relations: The establishment of an IIT in Tanzania strengthens the bond between India and Africa, showcasing India's growing interest in the continent and commitment to advancing education and human resource development there.
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Promoting top-notch technical education: IITs are renowned for their quality technical education, and this Tanzanian campus will grant African students access to world-class education, empowering them to build successful careers and contribute to their nations' development.
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Bridging the skill gap: With a substantial skill gap in Africa, the IIT in Tanzania will play a crucial role in addressing this issue by equipping African students with the necessary technical skills and knowledge demanded by the industry.
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Fostering innovation and research: Known for their research and innovation, IITs' presence in Tanzania will encourage research and innovation across the African continent, leading to economic growth and development.
IIT Madras International Campus Zanibar -Tanzania FAQs
Q1: Is IIT Madras really establishing an international campus in Zanzibar-Tanzania?
Ans: Yes, IIT Madras is set to create history by establishing its first international campus in Zanzibar, Tanzania.
Q2: What will be the role of the Office of Global Engagement, IIT Madras, in this project?
Ans: The Office of Global Engagement, IIT Madras, will coordinate the student entrance process for the international campus in Zanzibar. This will include conducting screening tests and interviews for prospective students.
Q3: How will the student entrance process for the international campus be conducted?
Ans: The student entrance process will involve a screening test developed by faculty experts at IIT Madras, followed by interviews with the applicants.
Q4: What is the basis for admission of international students to the IIT Madras Zanzibar campus?
Ans: The admission process for international students will be in accordance with the IITM Senate-approved process.
Q5: How will the IIT Madras Zanzibar campus leverage the expertise of its faculty?
Ans: The campus will utilize the broad expertise of IIT Madras faculty in interdisciplinary education, research, and technological innovation.
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