La Trobe University Strengthens Partnerships in India

La Trobe University continues to strengthen its long-standing presence in India through strategic partnerships with higher education institutions and key industries. Vice-Chancellor Professor Theo Farrell, who commenced his role in February 2024, is set to embark on his third visit to India, reinforcing the University’s commitment to international collaboration and innovation.

“I am delighted to visit India once again and further deepen La Trobe’s existing partnerships with esteemed Indian universities and industries, while also forging new collaborations,” Professor Farrell stated. “Our expertise in fields such as bio-innovation, health and wellbeing, technology, and sustainable food and agriculture is driving impactful collaborations with leading Indian institutions.”

La Trobe is currently working with the Biotechnology Industry Research Assistance Council (BIRAC) and the Bangalore Bioinnovation Centre (BBC) to establish a Bio Innovation Corridor. This initiative aims to enhance research and innovation, fostering groundbreaking developments in biotechnology and related sectors.

Professor Farrell also expressed enthusiasm for expanding educational opportunities between India and Australia. “Through joint educational initiatives, we can create transformative learning experiences for students in both nations, helping them achieve remarkable academic and professional milestones.”

During his visit, Professor Farrell participated in the QS India Summit 2025 in Goa, engaging in a panel discussion chaired by Dr. Vidya Yeravdekar, Pro Chancellor of Symbiosis International University. The panel focused on "Addressing Global Uncertainties: Building Resilient Educational Institutions,” exploring strategies to navigate global challenges in higher education. The summit, hosted by the Ministry of Education, Government of India, and SRM Institute of Science and Technology, provided a valuable platform for thought leadership and dialogue.

On January 31, La Trobe will commemorate the 30th anniversary of its partnership with Lady Shri Ram College for Women (LSR) in Delhi. This event will celebrate three decades of academic collaboration and student exchange, highlighting the strong ties between the institutions. Additionally, Professor Farrell will be a panelist at The PIE Live event in Delhi, discussing national education policies, future workforce trends, and the role of collaborative efforts in realizing India’s National Education Policy (NEP).

Throughout his visit, Professor Farrell will engage with key stakeholders, including researchers, government officials, and partner institutions, to further enhance academic cooperation between India and Australia.

About La Trobe University Ranked among the top 1% of universities globally, La Trobe University has a distinguished history of educating students from India. With over 11,000 Indian-born alumni, the University has been at the forefront of Australia-India academic partnerships. It is a founding member of the Australia India Institute and has developed several major research initiatives, including the IIT Kanpur – La Trobe Research Academy and the Asian Smart Cities Research Innovation Network (ASCRIN), which has invested more than AUD $43 million in sustainable urban development research.

La Trobe’s deep ties with India are reflected in its Hindi language programs, its extensive Indian literature collection, and its long-standing sponsorship of the Indian Film Festival in Melbourne. The University has also hosted distinguished dignitaries from India, including former Prime Minister Indira Gandhi, Bollywood icons Amitabh Bachchan and Shah Rukh Khan, and cricket legend Kapil Dev.

La Trobe’s commitment to gender equality and academic excellence is evident in initiatives like the Shah Rukh Khan La Trobe University PhD Scholarship, which provides aspiring female researchers from India with the opportunity to make a global impact.

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