The Future Of Learning: Dr. Patankar Of Symbiosis Dubai Discusses Why Globalisation Is Growing

Last year, Symbiosis International (Deemed University) opened its first international campus in Dubai, licensed by the UAE Ministry of Education (MOE) and the Knowledge and Human Development Authority (KHDA). The institution is known for its 50-year history of academic excellence.

The increasing demand for international education, the globalisation of economies, and the need for cross-border collaboration are the primary drivers behind the rise of global campuses such as Symbiosis. Students seek high-quality education and global exposure without necessarily having to relocate far from home. To meet this demand, universities are establishing campuses in strategic international locations to foster global competencies and cater to both local and international talent.

Symbiosis International University Dubai (SIU Dubai) exemplifies this trend, extending India’s rich 50-year educational legacy to the UAE. Dr. Anita Patankar, Executive Director of Symbiosis International University Dubai, speaks exclusively with OneArabia.me on the university's specialised programmes in artificial intelligence, digital marketing, and psychology reflect its commitment to cross-cultural learning and to addressing both local and global industry demands.

How does Symbiosis Dubai embody the concept of internationalization in education?

Symbiosis Dubai represents internationalisation by seamlessly integrating an Indian educational legacy with a global perspective. As the first Indian university to receive full CAA (MOE) accreditation from inception, our institution ensures academic excellence while aligning with global standards.

Our campus, located in Dubai Knowledge Park, offers industry-relevant programs such as AI & Machine Learning and collaborates with leading organizations like IEEE and Cisco. These initiatives enhance students’ cross-border competencies, equipping them for global careers. Furthermore, the establishment of this international campus underscores India's commitment to global education and aligns with Dubai’s E33 ambition to become a global education hub.

What advantages do students gain from studying at international campuses compared to local institutions?

Studying at an international campus offers students access to diverse cultures, international faculty, and a global professional network. This exposure fosters adaptability and intercultural competence—both essential attributes in today’s interconnected world.

At Symbiosis Dubai, students benefit from our extensive alumni network of over a thousand professionals in Dubai, strong corporate partnerships, international internships, and opportunities for collaborative learning. Our location within Dubai Knowledge Park, a hub of prestigious academic institutions, further enriches the multicultural academic experience and facilitates networking and knowledge exchange.

What challenges do universities face when expanding internationally, and how has Symbiosis navigated these challenges?

Establishing a global presence entails overcoming regulatory complexities, cultural differences, and brand positioning challenges. However, the well-established reputation of Symbiosis, built over five decades, facilitated our entry into the UAE’s academic landscape.

We are deeply grateful to the governments of India and the UAE, along with their respective education ministries, for their support in bringing Symbiosis Dubai to fruition. The inauguration of our campus on November 14, 2024, was a landmark event attended by distinguished leaders, including His Excellency Sheikh Nahayan Mabarak Al Nahyan, UAE Minister of Tolerance and Coexistence, and India’s External Affairs Minister, Dr. S. Jaishankar.

Beyond governmental support, we continue to forge meaningful industry collaborations, including partnerships with Dubai Police, while ensuring our academic offerings remain aligned with the evolving needs of local and global markets.

How does technology contribute to the success of global campuses?

Technology plays a pivotal role in facilitating seamless communication, hybrid learning models, and international collaborations. It also enhances students’ access to advanced learning tools and resources.

At Symbiosis Dubai, we integrate technology across all aspects of education, from AI-powered learning platforms to smart classrooms. Our partnerships with technology leaders like Cisco ensure that students receive industry-relevant training. Additionally, our dedicated faculty and student support services enable effective collaboration among students across different time zones, further enhancing the global learning experience.

Looking ahead, how do you see international education evolving over the next decade?

The future of international education will be characterised by deeper industry-academia collaborations, personalised learning experiences, and expanded digital integration. Key trends shaping the next decade include:

• Enhanced Digital Integration: A hybrid approach that combines online and in-person learning to provide greater flexibility.
• Focus on Sustainability: Universities will prioritise environmentally sustainable practices within their operations and curricula.
• Expanded International Collaborations: Strengthened global partnerships will offer students a broader spectrum of learning opportunities.

At Symbiosis Dubai, we are committed to staying at the forefront of these developments. Under my leadership, we have established an International Cell to facilitate exchange programs, short courses, and collaborations with leading global universities. We have already welcomed delegations from esteemed institutions such as the University at Buffalo (USA), Clarkson University (USA), Coventry University (UK), and Monash University (Australia), among others.

Our dedication to fostering global citizenship ensures that Symbiosis Dubai remains a leader in international education, continuously evolving to meet the demands of an ever-changing world.