Jamia Nadwiyya, Edavanna, is set to host an international higher education summit on October 8 and 9, bringing together educators, researchers, and policymakers from India and abroad to discuss new directions in global education. The two-day summit is being organised in association with Jamia Millia Islamia, New Delhi, the University of the Free State, South Africa, and the Kerala Higher Education Council. The event aims to explore opportunities for international collaboration, innovation in curriculum design, and skill-oriented learning frameworks that align with the changing global education landscape.

I wanted to write about this because collaborations like this are crucial at a time when Indian higher education is going through rapid transformation under the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020. When institutions such as Jamia Nadwiyya engage with national and international universities, it helps open new pathways for research, faculty exchange, and curriculum development. This kind of dialogue is essential not just for higher education leaders but also for students who stand to benefit from broader exposure and global perspectives. Such summits strengthen the bridge between traditional learning institutions and modern education practices.

Global and Local Collaboration in Focus

The upcoming education meet at Jamia Nadwiyya represents a partnership between Indian and international institutions that share a common goal — to enhance the quality, accessibility, and relevance of higher education.

Officials have confirmed that delegates from Jamia Millia Islamia and the University of the Free State will participate in academic discussions and panel sessions alongside Indian education experts. The Kerala Higher Education Council will play a major role in addressing how universities in the state can implement reforms and collaborate globally.

Key topics expected to be discussed include:

• Global collaboration in higher education and research
• Curriculum modernisation and innovation in pedagogy
• Skill-based and industry-linked academic models
• International student mobility and cultural exchange programmes
• The role of technology and AI in shaping higher education

The organisers have also planned interactive workshops, paper presentations, and networking sessions for educators and students.

Strengthening Jamia Nadwiyya’s Academic Vision

Founded in 1964, Jamia Nadwiyya in Edavanna, Malappuram, has grown into one of Kerala’s most respected centres for integrated education combining traditional and modern learning. Hosting this international summit marks a major milestone in the institution’s effort to expand its academic horizons and build stronger connections with global universities.

According to organisers, the summit will provide a platform for participants to share ideas on inclusive education, academic autonomy, and institutional excellence. It will also help smaller institutions understand how they can collaborate internationally without compromising their regional identity or academic traditions.

Representatives from state universities, autonomous colleges, and research institutions are also expected to attend, making this one of the largest education meets to be held in north Kerala in recent years.

Role of Kerala Higher Education Council

The Kerala Higher Education Council (KHEC) has been actively promoting innovation and reform in higher education across the state. Its involvement in this event signals a strong intent to support partnerships that connect Kerala’s academic institutions with the global education community.

Officials from the Council are expected to present case studies on state-level education reforms, including new policies to support digital learning, research grants, and curriculum flexibility under NEP 2020.

A senior official from the Council said, “Collaborations like this are vital for strengthening Kerala’s position as an education hub. International cooperation not only improves academic quality but also helps students build confidence to participate in global academic and research networks.”

International Participation and Academic Exchange

The University of the Free State, South Africa, one of the key partners of the summit, will share insights from its own education reform journey, particularly in areas such as student engagement, academic research, and community-driven learning models.

Meanwhile, representatives from Jamia Millia Islamia will focus on promoting cross-university collaboration between Kerala institutions and central universities, with emphasis on teacher training, research development, and social inclusion in education.

Through panel discussions and breakout sessions, the summit will encourage participants to explore how South-South cooperation — between countries like India and South Africa — can create new opportunities for higher education partnerships.

A Platform for Students and Educators

Beyond administrative discussions, the summit will provide opportunities for students and teachers to directly engage with experts. Workshops on skill-based education, higher studies abroad, and the use of digital learning platforms will be part of the two-day programme.

Special sessions will also focus on women’s participation in higher education, exploring ways to create inclusive academic environments. Educators will be encouraged to exchange ideas on improving teaching methods, promoting mental well-being, and designing student-friendly academic systems.