In an exclusive conversation, Rachel Sandison, Deputy Vice-Chancellor of the University of Glasgow, discusses the institution’s deep-rooted relationship with India, its commitment to fostering global talent, and the significance of collaborations with Indian organizations. With a strong Indian student community and ongoing partnerships across academia and industry, the University of Glasgow continues to strengthen its presence in the region.
From engaging with prospective students in Mumbai, Bengaluru, and Delhi to forming strategic alliances with leading organizations like Biocon and Science Gallery Bengaluru, the university’s latest delegation visit underscores its dedication to innovation, inclusivity, and excellence in education.
Why is the delegation from the University of Glasgow in India?
The University of Glasgow has very close ties with India, and we are proud of the partnerships and relationships we have developed over many years. We are honoured that Indian students are the second largest international population at our University, with more than a thousand students currently choosing to learn and research with us. It is important that we visit India as often as we can to showcase what out University can offer Indian students who are considering studying abroad, but for us also to engage with our partner organisations based there while looking to develop new innovative collaborations. During this trip we have hosted a series of events for prospective students in Mumbai, Bengaluru and Delhi. The events included presentations; mini lectures; networking; and the chance for students to ask questions directly to academic staff, including details on scholarships and graduate destinations. The events were attended by academic staff from all four of the University’s Colleges and our dedicated international team for India. The delegation also included two of the most senior members of the University: Vice Chancellor, Professor Sir Anton Muscatelli and Deputy Vice Chancellor, Professor Rachel Sandison. Members of the delegation also met key partners and stakeholders to discuss current and future collaborations across teaching and research, including Biocon, Syngene, Science Gallery Bengaluru (SGB), Shrimad Rajchandra Mission in Dharampur and OPJindal Global University (JGU). India is, and always will be, a major strategic partner for Glasgow and that is why I am delighted that we continue to develop successful relationships across business and academia.
Why does the University of Glasgow value Indian students so highly?
The University of Glasgow is a proudly international institution, and we value the presence and contribution of students from all around the world. We believe that providing opportunities for our students to share and learn from different cultures not only enriches their academic experience but makes them well-rounded graduates and global citizens. Indian students offer unique insights that help the University of Glasgow deliver our vision to be not just the best university in the world, but the best university for the world. Students from India contribute enormously to life on campus as well as providing cultural, societal and economic benefits to Glasgow, Scotland and the UK.
How does being an Indian student in Glasgow, Scotland, and the UK feel?
Our Indian students particularly enjoy the fantastic facilities they have access to on our beautiful campus, and the friendliness of the people at the University, and in the city of Glasgow more generally. They’re making the best use of the exposure they have to world class facilities for learning and teaching, and to industry opportunities through their degree programmes and Careers opportunities such as our Internship Hub which helps them develop soft skills which will enhance their employment opportunities in addition to their quality education. Food plays an important part of the student experience for an Indian student (!), and easy access to ingredients for home cooking and authentic restaurants help the experience along. The weather, however, is a little less friendly than the local people! With a little preparation, however, this is easily overcome.
As well as learning more about the UK, studying in the UK allows exposure to lots of other cultures, too, and students have the opportunity to get to know classmates from around the world through their studies or the hundreds of clubs and societies, enjoy their
food and festivals, and develop a worldwide network. You can hear more about what our students enjoy about their experiences studying with us, and advice they would give for students considering studying in Glasgow or the UK, on our social media channels through the vlogs they produce: https://www.gla.ac.uk/explore/meetglasgow/
Why would you advise Indian students who are thinking about studying overseas to enroll at the University of Glasgow?
The University of Glasgow and our inspiring people have been changing the world for more than 570 years. Adam Smith laid the foundations of modern economics. James Watt gave power to the industrial revolution. Ian Donald showed us the first ultrasound image of a foetus. Jocelyn Bell Burnell discovered radio pulsars. Today, our inspiring people continue to change the world for the better. Changing the world is not only about making discoveries and creating new technologies. Informed leaders, creative thinkers and bold business minds have honed their skills at Glasgow. The talents of some of the UK’s most influential political figures have been nurtured here. Award-winning writers have developed their craft. Human rights activists have gained their voice. We are a place where the synergy between our research and teaching inspires ambitious people to succeed. A place where inquiring minds can develop their ideas. A place where talented people are given the space to realise their dreams. Most importantly, we are open to the world. Our doors are open to the brightest minds, regardless of background, who wish to study at university. We are open to collaboration and the exchange of knowledge with other universities, government and business. To continue to be a world-class and progressive university, we are dedicated to bringing inspiring people together to change the world. You can find out directly from our Indian students and their families here:
https://www.gla.ac.uk/international/country/india/
Our Get to Know Glasgow podcast shares the experiences of some of our India students as they look to find work and future employment opportunities throughout their studies. Chandra, one of our recent graduates, talks about why he decided to choose to study at the University of Glasgow, and his experience as a student. Alternatively you can listen to Navya and her mum talking about everything that Glasgow has to offer.
If Indian students are considering studying in Glasgow, what should they do?
We would encourage future students, thinking about choosing the University of Glasgow to do their homework – there is a wealth of information to support them to understand everything the University has to offer from the course they are interested in, to the wider student experience but also the city itself. If you are interested in applying for an undergraduate degree you can apply via UCAS and can find out more here:https://www.gla.ac.uk/undergraduate/
If you are interested in applying for a postgraduate degree, you can apply directly to the University. A small number of courses will have specific deadlines, but generally we would encourage you to apply as early as possible, given the demand for our degrees but also this supports you to have plenty of time to plan your journey to Glasgow. We have a network of agents based in India, who can future support you with your application, and through the immigration process. At Glasgow, we are dedicated to supporting our future World Changers, which is why we have allocated over £15 million in international scholarships. This includes our World Changers Global Excellence Scholarship. A comprehensive list of all our scholarships can be found at: https://www.gla.ac.uk/scholarships/
What is the significance of Glasgow’s collaborations with organizations such as Biocon and the Science Gallery Bengaluru?
At the University of Glasgow our vision is to not just to be the best university in the world, but the best university for the world. We realise that this vision cannot be achieved alone and global partnerships with organisations like Biocon and Science Gallery Bengaluru play a crucial role in driving societal change. Our extensive international network of partners enables us to connect and collaborate with those who share our ambitions and pioneering spirit. The partnerships that we prioritise across every continent have a palpable and positive impact. Developing meaningful and mutually beneficial relationships with partners and stakeholders is mission-critical for the University. We are committed to ensuring that our partnerships are reciprocal and founded in mutual trust and respect. Giving students the remarkable opportunity to work and study with incredible organisations like Biocon and the SGB provides a unique experience to become genuine world changers.
