The High Commission of India and the Consulate General of India in Brisbane, in partnership with the Australian Department of Education and Queensland University of Technology, have hosted the first meeting of a new forum bringing together academics of Indian origin from across Australia. The gathering, held at QUT in Brisbane, sets the groundwork for a long-term platform aimed at strengthening collaboration in teaching, research and innovation.
The initiative reflects a shared interest in widening academic cooperation between India and Australia at a time when both countries are looking closely at knowledge exchange, skills development and the future of advanced research. Organisers said the new Forum of Academics of Indian Origin offers an opportunity to connect scholars who contribute to Australia’s universities while maintaining strong links to India’s long-standing academic and scientific traditions.
Attendance at the inaugural meeting highlighted the broad appeal of the initiative. Academics from universities across Australia joined the event, representing disciplines spanning STEM fields, media and communications, agriculture, business studies and health sciences. For many, the forum provides a space to build community, explore collaborative ideas and better understand shared research priorities.
Emeritus Professor Chennupati Jagdish delivered the keynote address, drawing on decades of experience in global research networks. He spoke about the evolving expectations placed on universities and researchers, and the role forums like this can play in shaping cooperation that crosses borders. His remarks set the tone for a thoughtful day of discussion.
The programme featured three panel sessions focused on areas that continue to shape academic strategies worldwide. The first panel examined emerging technologies and their growing influence on industries and public policy. Another panel turned attention to AI and its expanding use in education and research, exploring how universities are adapting to rapid developments in machine learning and automation. The final session focused on health research, an area where collaboration between institutions often leads to breakthroughs with broad social impact.
Participants described the event as a welcome step towards building an organised network that can support joint research projects, encourage academic mobility and promote new partnerships between institutions in India and Australia. Many also pointed to the value of informal connections created on the sidelines of the event, which often lead to future collaborations.
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
