Austria aims to bridge its labor shortages by targeting Indian students, particularly promoting technical education fields.
The Austrian government has announced a new initiative aimed at strengthening the relationship between Austria and India, with a focus on people-to-people ties. This program, publicly funded and known as the Migration and Mobility Partnership Agreement (MMPA), is designed to increase cooperation between Austrian technical universities and Indian institutions.
The MMPA offers a unique opportunity for both sides, providing benefits in terms of education and mobility. Through this program, Austria is creating opportunities that are beneficial for both Austrian and Indian students, researchers, and professionals. The initiative targets more than 300 Indian students in its first year, with a focus on science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) disciplines.
The fields of study offered under the MMPA include metallurgy, biotechnology, circular engineering, computer science, AI and robotics, sustainable technologies, petroleum engineering, and green chemistry. The program offers a two-year Master's degree, combining academic training with industry exposure and placements.
To apply for the program, eligible students can submit their degree certificates and transcripts to VFS Education Services through its admissions portal. Austria's world-class education, nearly no tuition fees, and attractive destination compared to other European countries make it an appealing choice for many Indian students.
Austria views India as a key partner, both bilaterally and within the EU framework. The initiative is being implemented in partnership with VFS Education Services to streamline admissions for eligible Indian students. The Montanuniversität Leoben, alongside TU Wien and TU Graz, as part of TU Austria, decided to jointly attract Indian students in the fields of STEM.
The MMPA and the India-EU Free Trade Agreement (FTA) are significant agreements that have implications for the relationship between Austria and India. Ambassador Wieser emphasized the importance of the broader India-EU engagement, noting that education and mobility initiatives complement ongoing efforts to advance the India-EU FTA.
Graduates of the program will have a clear pathway into Austria's workforce, particularly in STEM-related jobs. Students who complete the program will receive a one-year post-study visa extension after graduation, further enhancing their prospects in Austria.
This initiative by Austria to attract Indian students is part of a larger effort to deepen cooperation under the MMPA signed with India in January 2023. The Austrian government sees this as a crucial step towards fostering deeper ties between Austria and India, contributing to a stronger and more collaborative future for both nations.
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