The Indian Institute of Technology Bombay (IIT Bombay) is preparing to make its international academic debut with the introduction of a dual degree PhD programme in Japan. This initiative marks a significant step in the institute’s global outreach and is being developed in collaboration with Tohoku University, a leading government-supported Japanese institution.
The partnership will officially begin with the establishment of a joint Centre within the next year, focusing initially on doctoral research. This research-centric PhD programme is expected to pave the way for joint Master’s programmes in the future. The collaboration underscores a strategic alliance between India’s academic expertise and Japan’s advanced technological ecosystem.
This dual degree initiative is designed to strengthen ties between the two nations, promoting knowledge exchange, innovation-led research, and collaborative access to industry networks in Japan. The programme will provide Indian scholars with opportunities to engage with cutting-edge infrastructure and global industry leaders, while contributing to the academic and research landscape of both countries.
Momentum for this collaboration gained traction following the signing of a formal Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) in Japan last month. Currently, around 1,600 Indian students are pursuing higher education in Japan, a number expected to rise with this development. The partnership is further supported by the consistent interest of Japanese companies in recruiting IIT Bombay graduates, which adds a strong industrial dimension to the academic framework.
Initially, the focus will remain on postgraduate and research programmes, with no plans to offer undergraduate courses. The initiative aims to create a unique blend of Indian expertise in engineering and software with Japan’s robust technological infrastructure.
By leveraging the strengths of both institutions, the programme aspires to produce globally competent researchers and foster long-term collaboration in science, technology, and innovation. The academic venture marks a milestone in IIT Bombay’s internationalisation efforts and represents a broader push towards enhancing India’s presence in global higher education networks.
