In a significant stride towards nurturing the budding cricket talent in India, the University of Canberra (UC) – one of the world’s top universities and Cricket ACT, the peak body for the sport in the Australian Capital Territory (ACT), formally signed an agreement to provide in-school programs, tailored to enhance the skills of aspiring young cricket players across India.
University of Canberra Interim Vice-Chancellor, Professor Lucy Johnston, and Cricket ACT CEO, Olivia Thornton, formally signed the agreement at the Jamia Millia Islamia University Ground in New Delhi, with ACT Chief Minister Andrew Barr MLA in attendance as part of the Chief Minister’s Trade Delegation to India.
The establishment of the annual flagship UC India Cricket Cup is an important pillar of the agreement. This seven-day cricket carnival will include training camps and sessions; the best and brightest young talent from schools across India will be invited to participate.
The partnership aims to bring an international perspective to cricket education in India, leveling the playing field especially for girls and women in cricket, and creating opportunities for cultural exchange.
The engagement activities run by the University of Canberra and Cricket ACT were part of a wider collaborative arrangement that includes:
● Sponsorships
● Work integrated learning opportunities that provided students with practical industry experience
● Opportunities for collaborative research with industry partners
● ‘Study and play’ pathways for Indian students in Canberra
The partnership also includes a cultural exchange program, providing an opportunity for selected students to visit Australia’s capital city – home to the University of Canberra, Cricket ACT, and other iconic institutions like the Australian Institute of Sport (AIS) – where they will get to experience local sporting culture. In India, the partnership will bring tailored teaching and coaching development sessions; training and playing tours for students; staff development programs for school sport coaches to support them in spotting talent early on; and more.
For Indian students seeking an enriching Australian adventure, Canberra is the perfect destination. Renowned as one of the world’s most livable cities and a top-tier student hub globally, Canberra offers unparalleled academic experiences. Its universities rank among the world’s top 100, with many in Australia’s top 10. Students thrive in a dynamic job market with the highest average income and lowest unemployment rates nationwide. Canberra’s diverse institutions foster innovation and creativity, providing a safe and welcoming environment for international students amidst endless opportunities and warm hospitality.
