As Andhra University approaches its 100th Foundation Day on April 26, 2026, the centenary festivities are shaping up to be a vibrant celebration of cultural diversity rather than just a historical milestone. With a remarkable 1,150 international students hailing from 57 countries, the university serves as a significant hub where local heritage intersects with global exchange. “This is among the highest numbers of international students for any university in India, spanning undergraduate, postgraduate, and doctoral programs,” said Prof. S. Paul Douglas, Dean of International Affairs at Andhra University.
The attraction of international students is not a recent phenomenon; for decades, Andhra University has drawn scholars from Asia and Africa, thanks in part to its academic reputation and scholarship programs managed by the Indian Council for Cultural Relations (ICCR). The establishment of the Office of International Affairs in the late 1990s streamlined the admission process and student services, facilitating a more structured approach to international collaborations. “This year’s largest share of international students comes from Bangladesh, with over 150, while we also see strong representation from African nations,” stated Prof. Douglas.
What stands out is the longevity of many students’ stays. Some have immersed themselves in the university life for seven to ten years, completing multiple degrees. Engineering remains the most sought-after discipline, while scientific research attracts numerous doctoral candidates. For Afghan doctoral student Abeedullah Aabede, the centenary celebration holds both cultural and personal significance. “As an international student, I am proud to be part of this celebration. My experience on campus has been thoroughly enjoyable,” he remarked.
The festivities emphasize global participation, particularly through cultural expressions like food. Prof. Douglas noted that international students often arrive eager to experience Indian cuisine, highlighting biryani as a common favorite. To celebrate this culinary exchange, the university hosted a food festival on March 22 at the AU Convention Centre, featuring dishes from nearly 40 countries. “We served about 6,000 plates, showcasing a vast array of international cuisines,” he said, adding that the event aimed to make cultural diversity accessible at a modest price.
Following the food festival, a cultural program on March 26 extended engagement through performances and presentations. Over the course of five hours, students showcased their countries through music, dance, and informative introductions. “In just five minutes, one could grasp the richness of a country’s culture,” noted Prof. Douglas, emphasizing the educational value of the event.
The centenary is also an opportunity to strengthen global collaborations. Prof. Douglas highlighted ongoing partnerships with institutions in Sweden and Australia while revealing aspirations to initiate up to 100 Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) with universities worldwide. “The centenary is a prime moment to expand our institutional network,” he added.
Moreover, a considerable number of international students benefit from ICCR-sponsored fellowships, which provide financial support for tuition, living expenses, and travel. The university’s location in Visakhapatnam, often preferred over larger metros due to its safety and peaceful environment, contributes to a positive living experience. Many students choose independent living, reporting a supportive local community.
As the centenary approaches, students from various countries express sentiments of belonging. “Initially apprehensive about moving abroad, I’ve found this place to be home,” said Srishti Sikder, a Master’s student in Journalism and Mass Communication from Bangladesh. For these international students, the celebration transcends academic achievement, symbolizing a united community as the university embarks on its next century.
Original Source: https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/andhra-pradesh/cultures-converge-as-andhra-university-marks-its-centenary/article70815427.ece
Category : Andhra Pradesh
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Publish Date: 2026-04-04 08:30:00
