Victoria’s Premier, Jacinta Allan, kicked off her official India tour by celebrating a landmark partnership between RMIT University and Birla Institute of Technology and Science, Pilani (BITS Pilani). During the first day of her visit, Allan recognised the impact of the innovative India-Australia dual degree program, which has already seen more than 260 students enrol across both institutions.
The BITS-RMIT Higher Education Academy, launched in 2023, offers a unique four-year dual degree program that gives students the opportunity to split their studies between India and Melbourne. This partnership is shaping graduates to meet growing global demands while fostering deeper cross-cultural ties.
“RMIT and BITS Pilani are offering students the best of both worlds,” Allan said, “with an education that equips them to secure jobs in either Australia or India, and a multicultural connection that will last a lifetime.”
RMIT University’s Executive Director International, Layton Pike, also highlighted the strength of the collaboration, adding, “BITS Pilani and RMIT are key players in higher education, and together, we’re delivering a world-class curriculum.”
The initiative already has students attending classes at Hyderabad, Pilani, and now the Goa campus, with a second group of undergraduates recently commencing. A new dual program launched this year, offering students a Bachelor of Engineering in Computer Science from BITS Pilani alongside a Bachelor of Engineering in Software Engineering (Honours) from RMIT.
Professor Ramgopal Rao, Vice-Chancellor of BITS Pilani, praised the curriculum for preparing students for future technology landscapes, stating, “Students are stepping into a world where collaboration and creativity will lead to groundbreaking developments.”
The partnership not only enhances students’ career prospects but also expands RMIT’s reach in the Asia-Pacific region, building on its longstanding presence in Singapore and Vietnam. Through this collaboration, graduates will gain invaluable skills and experiences, ensuring they are well-prepared to excel in both Australian and Indian job markets.
As Jacinta Allan’s tour continues, this successful partnership highlights the ongoing importance of educational collaboration between Victoria and India, paving the way for even more initiatives that strengthen ties and open doors for students across both nations.
Support independent community journalism. Support The Indian Sun.
Follow The Indian Sun on X | Instagram | Facebook
Support Independent Community Journalism
Dear Reader,The Indian Sun exists for one reason: to tell stories that might otherwise go unheard.
We report on local councils, state politics, small businesses and cultural festivals. We focus on the Indian diaspora and the wider multicultural community with care, balance and accountability. We publish in print and online, send regular newsletters and produce video content. We also run media training programs to help community organisations share their own stories.
We operate independently.
Community journalism does not have the backing of large media corporations. Advertising revenue fluctuates. Platform algorithms change. Costs continue to rise. Yet the need for credible, grounded reporting in a multicultural Australia has never been greater.
When you support The Indian Sun, you support:
• Independent reporting on issues affecting migrant communities
• Coverage of local and state decisions that shape daily life
• A platform for small businesses and community groups
• Media training that builds skills within the community
• Journalism accountable to readers
We cannot cover everything, but we work to cover what matters.
If you value thoughtful reporting that reflects Australia’s diversity, we invite you to contribute. Every donation helps us maintain the quality and consistency of our work.
Please consider making a contribution today.
Thank you for your support.
The Indian Sun Team
