Sibal to tour New Zealand for educational ties

NEW DELHI/HAMILTON - In the backdrop of the cabinet nod to allow foreign universities to set up campuses in India, Human Resource Development Minister Kapil Sibal is to tour New Zealand next week to seek closer ties in the educational sector.

According to an HRD ministry official, Sibal is expected to tour New Zealand for three days beginning April 11.

India-New Zealand Business Council Chairperson W. Anthony told IANS in Hamilton that Sibal’s visit would be important for bettering educational ties between both the countries. He said the flow of Indian students to his country is increasing over the years.

India’s vast human capital and sound educational system will be of interest to New Zealand as well. India and New Zealand governments, academicians and administrators can look at reforms and opportunities in the educational sector, Anthony said.

Richard Howard, who is facilitating collaboration among educational institutes of both the countries, said that Sibal’s visit would be beneficial to New Zealand too.