Punjab universities see increase in African student population

LUDHIANA - Foreign students, especially from Africa, are getting enrolled in large numbers for various courses offered by universities and educational institutions in Punjab.

Universities in the state are seeing a sharp increase in the enrollment of students especially from Nigeria, Tanzania, Congo and the Sudan.

The African students said that they chose to study in India because of good quality education being provided in the country, adding that they receive international standard of learning.

“Well, we came to India because we have been hearing about India for long that India has one of the best universities, to find out one of the best technologies in India, and likewise, we came over to see few good things over here. We are doing our best and we will show all our best to see we meet up to their standards under the guidelines of learning and less talk about our side. India you find out great people, different people and they are good in learning,” said Obomanu Alex, a Nigerian student.

The African students added that as compared the other countries, education in India is cheaper and better.

“The difference between education in India and in United States and Nigeria is the fee involved. In India, it’s very cheap and you find good schools in India all over in different states,” said Eric Godworks, another Nigerian student.

As per the authorities of the universities, more and more foreign students are heading to India for studying in a new trend.

“I have seen the trend in the country changing now. The people who were going abroad earlier for higher education, they are preferring to stay in India. Even I have seen people from other countries are coming to India now because of better facilities available here, and better education available here,” said H. R. Singla, Director General of a private university.

African students are happy with the facilities provided to them in the campus and the hospitality.

Currently, over 250 students from nearly 16 countries are studying at a private university in the state, out of which around 50 are from African countries. (ANI)