A new chapter in international cooperation
The model presented aims to establish cooperation between Austria and India that goes far beyond traditional university cooperation and sets new standards across Europe. The focus is not only on alliances between leading Indian technical universities and TU Austria, but also on partnerships at government level.
"We are proud to be part of this pioneering initiative that welcomes outstanding students from India to Austria. This program reflects our strong commitment to academic excellence, international exchange and global responsibility. It opens doors to cutting-edge master's programs in specialized fields such as circular engineering, resource efficiency and sustainable technologies - disciplines that are critical to shaping a more resilient and sustainable future.
At our universities, we believe that diversity is a driver of innovation. By bringing together students from different cultures and academic backgrounds, we create an environment in which bold ideas can flourish and practical solutions can emerge," explains TU Austria President Peter Moser.
Pioneering future cooperation that goes beyond science, research and innovation
Innovative study programmes and PhD programmes are planned that will make it possible to bring the best minds from India to Austria, where they can acquire expertise in cutting-edge technology and technology transfer, particularly in the fields of industrial modernization (plant construction, automation), automotive/mobility, transport infrastructure (rail, cable cars, tunnel construction, traffic management) and e-business. The Austrian Federal Ministry for Women, Science and Research (BMFWF) is providing the three participating universities – Technical University of Leoben, TU Wien and TU Graz - with a total of five million euros for this future-oriented project until 2027. "This is a pioneering future-oriented cooperation that is not just about further deepening the existing partnership between Austria and India in science and research. Above all, it is about breaking new ground together in the areas of excellent teaching, innovative research, technology transfer and sustainability, in which both sides contribute their respective strengths," emphasizes Elmar Pichl, Head of the Higher Education Section at the BMFWF.
The Indian Ambassador to Austria Shri Shambhu S. Kumaran also emphasizes the benefits for Indian students:
“We welcome the initiative of Austria's leading technical universities to deepen educational cooperation with India by creating a special portal for Indian students. This portal enables them to complete engineering and technology-related degree programs in Austria. This important step strengthens the connection between our countries and lays the foundation for a more intensive bilateral economic partnership in the future.”
Sustainable impact for science and business
Austrian industry is also actively involved in this unique cooperation project. The aim is to make it easier for Indian students to access the Austrian labor market after graduation. This not only strategically addresses the skilled labour shortage in technical professions, but also creates a sustainable link between science and industry.
"We are delighted to be working with the Austrian Universities of Technology to open up higher education opportunities for Indian students. By supporting this cross-border public-private initiative, VFS Global Academy is playing a critical role in promoting global mobility and strengthening bilateral ties. This initiative not only provides students with world-class and affordable learning opportunities, but also reflects our overarching mission to create better futures and strengthen international cooperation in education," said Zubin Karkaria, Founder and CEO, VFS Global Group.
A cooperation project as a milestone for the future
By signing this strategic partnership, Austria is sending a strong signal for international cooperation in education, research and business. TU Austria shows how conviction and cooperation can build bridges to the future - for both countries and beyond.
Contact for further information:
Mag. Dr. Elke Standeker, Bakk. MBA
Secretary General of TU Austria
Phone: +43 | 3842 402 7013
e-mail: elke.standeker(at)tuaustria.ac.at
media-contact:
Mag. Christine Adacker
phone: +43 | 3842 402 7224
e-mail: christine.adacker(at)unileoben.ac.at
