Fostering Global Ties: The International Conference on Internationalisation of Higher Education in Assam

The vibrant city of Guwahati, Assam, recently played host to a landmark event that underscored India’s growing emphasis on global academic collaboration. Organized by the Department of Higher Education, Government of Assam, the two-day International Conference on Internationalisation of Higher Education took place on January 29-30, 2026, at the Assam Administrative Staff College in Khanapara. This gathering brought together 66 delegates from 13 countries, along with over 2,000 participants including faculty, students, and researchers, to discuss strategies for enhancing cross-border educational partnerships, research innovation, and sustainable development in higher education.

The conference featured expert talks, panel discussions, and networking sessions aimed at addressing key challenges in higher education, such as multidisciplinary learning models, industry-academia connections, and employment opportunities. A highlight was the signing of 15 Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) between various institutions, symbolizing concrete steps toward international cooperation. Chief Guest Dr. Ranoj Pegu, Minister of Education, Government of Assam, emphasized the importance of adopting global best practices to strengthen Assam’s higher education ecosystem.

Among the notable collaborations forged at the event was an MoU between Dhemaji Engineering College (DEC) and Aartees Education Incorporated, a Philippines-based organization specializing in language training and international education pathways. Aartees Education stands out for its focused programs in German language instruction, helping students from beginner to advanced levels achieve fluency and cultural immersion to pursue opportunities in Germany and beyond. With a 95% exam pass rate and over 2,400 students trained globally, Aartees has established itself as a gateway for aspiring professionals and scholars seeking international careers.

A key figure in this partnership is Ms. Rubylyn Hernandez, associated with Aartees Education Foundation Inc., Philippines. Known for her expertise in scaling educational initiatives to meet global standards, Ms. Hernandez has been a prominent voice in international forums, including the Women’s International Summit on Entrepreneurship (WISE) 2025, where she shared insights on business growth and sustainability. Her involvement in the Assam conference likely played a pivotal role in facilitating the MoU, promoting cross-cultural exchanges that could benefit students in engineering and technology fields through language skills, internships, and joint programs. This collaboration exemplifies how institutions from diverse regions can align to prepare graduates for a globalized workforce.

The event not only highlighted Assam’s proactive role in India’s National Education Policy (NEP) 2020 goals for internationalization but also set the stage for future initiatives. By featuring partnerships like the one with Aartees Education and leaders like Ms. Rubylyn Hernandez, the conference demonstrates the power of education to bridge borders and drive innovation. As Assam continues to expand its international academic linkages, such events promise a brighter, more connected future for higher education in the region.