MUMBAI: The University of Mumbai (MU) has announced innovative innovative courses with international collaborations, reflecting its strategic drive to equip students in high-demand areas such as semiconductor development, data science and cybersecurity. The university shared these developments during its recent ‘Diwali Sandhya’ celebration, which was attended by consular dignitaries from 26 countries and students from over 55 countries.

The event, organized by the MU Student Development Department, aimed to introduce international visitors to the cultural richness of the festival. Held at the historic Sir Cowasji Jehangir Convocation Hall, the celebration brought together foreign diplomats from countries like Argentina, Japan, Turkey and the United Kingdom, giving them an immersive experience in traditions, cuisine and music Indians. This festive setting highlighted the university’s growing role as a global educational hub.

During the event, Prof. Ravindra Kulkarni, Vice-Chancellor, shared MU’s latest educational initiatives and vision to strengthen partnerships with world-class institutions. “The university has undertaken various projects to open up new opportunities with foreign universities through the School of Foreign Languages,” he said. He emphasized that MU’s national and international student and scholarship centers are at the heart of this mission, creating avenues for collaboration across borders.

MU’s recent partnerships have led to memorandums of understanding (MoUs) with several leading foreign universities, including an alliance with Saint Louis University to introduce associate degree programs in data analytics and cybersecurity. New age course offerings are designed to prepare students for rapidly changing job markets in high-demand industries. “Our aim is to create training pathways that meet the needs of industry, including in areas such as semiconductor technology, where there is a growing demand for skilled professionals,” Professor Kulkarni said.

The VC also announced that MU had established a Center of Excellence in Health Care in partnership with Purdue University. This center aims to support health care research, adding to MU’s growing portfolio of specialized programs and research initiatives designed to address global challenges. “Through these international collaborations, we encourage the exchange of educational resources and enable joint research that will benefit students and faculty,” added Professor Kulkarni.

The Diwali Sandhya event provided an ideal setting to strengthen MU’s global ties. Diplomats and students participated in the festivities, enjoying traditional Indian food and music.