Date: 29th March 2025 | Venue: GLS University, India
The MoU Exchange & Inauguration Ceremony for the Global Programme between GLS University, India, and Seneca Polytechnic, Canada, took place successfully on 29th March 2025 at GLS University. This event marked a significant milestone in enhancing global educational opportunities for students in India. For the first time in India and Canada, GLS University and Seneca Polytechnic have launched a pioneering Global Programme, marking a significant milestone in international academic collaboration.’
The ceremony was graced by esteemed dignitaries, with Dr. Dipesh Shah, Executive Director (Development) at the International Financial Services Centres Authority (IFSCA), GIFT City, Gujarat, and Ms. Jennifer Daubeny, Acting High Commissioner at the Canadian High Commission to India, serving as the Chief Guests. Other notable guests included Dr. Sudhir Nanavati, President of GLS University, India; Mr. David Agnew, President of Seneca Polytechnic, Canada; Dr. Chandni Kapadia, Executive Director of GLS University, India; Dr. Marianne Marando, Vice President of Business Development, Seneca Polytechnic, Canada; Mr. Prashant Srivastava, Director of Regional Business Development at Seneca International, Seneca Polytechnic, Canada; and Dr. Dharmesh Shah, Provost of GLS University, India.
The event began with a prayer, followed by a warm welcome address by Dr. Chandni Kapadia, Executive Director of GLS University, India, and Director of the School of International Studies, GLS University. Dr. Kapadia highlighted the importance of the Global Programme in shaping the future of higher education. She emphasized that the programme is not just an academic venture but a transformative step that redefines how students approach foreign education.
Dr. Kapadia stated that this collaboration between GLS University and Seneca Polytechnic is a game-changer, offering students an opportunity to earn a high-quality international degree while staying grounded in their home country for the first year. She elaborated on the immense benefits this programme brings to students, including exposure to global educational practices, the chance to develop a global network, and the opening of doors to international career prospects. Furthermore, she stressed that the Global programme is breaking down geographical boundaries, making foreign education more accessible and affordable.
Dr. Sudhir Nanavati, President of GLS University, India, spoke about the importance of global academic collaborations and how the partnership between GLS University and Seneca Polytechnic would strengthen India’s position as a hub for international education. He emphasized the need for educational institutions to adapt to changing global dynamics and provide students with opportunities to compete on a global scale. He also highlighted how this collaboration aligns with India’s educational goals and the vision of creating future leaders with international exposure.
Dr. Dipesh Shah, Executive Director (Development) at the International Financial Services Centres Authority (IFSCA), GIFT City, Gujarat, addressed the gathering. In his speech, Dr. Shah praised the partnership between GLS University and Seneca Polytechnic, stating that it is a significant step forward for enhancing educational exchange and creating global learning opportunities. He emphasized that such collaborations are essential for fostering a deeper understanding of international standards and practices, and they provide students with the tools needed to thrive in a globalized world. Dr. Shah also discussed the growing importance of developing skill sets that are not only academically sound but also aligned with the demands of an increasingly interconnected world economy. He expressed his hope that this programme would serve as a model for future academic collaborations between India and Canada, enriching both nations' educational landscapes.
Mr. Prashant Srivastava, Director of Regional Business Development at Seneca International, provided an insightful overview of the Global programme. He elaborated on the potential of the programme to foster academic collaborations and to create a seamless pathway for students to gain exposure to international education while remaining in India for their first year.
One of the key benefits of the programme is its structure, where students will spend one year at GLS University, India, completing courses in Business Administration and Computer Science. Upon successful completion of their first year, students will continue their education at Seneca Polytechnic, Canada, for the next two years. They will graduate with a degree from Seneca Polytechnic, which will significantly enhance their global career prospects.
The programme also offers a streamlined admission process, where students can directly gain admission to Seneca Polytechnic after completing their first year at GLS University. The only requirement for admission to the Canadian institution is the IELTS examination, ensuring that the process is efficient and accessible for students from India.
The MoU Exchange marked the official inauguration of the International Programme, with the dignitaries unveiling the programme brochure and reaffirming their commitment to expanding international educational opportunities. Ms. Jennifer Daubeny and Dr. Dipesh Shah both delivered impactful speeches, emphasizing the importance of global partnerships and the role of education in shaping future leaders. Mr. David Agnew, President of Seneca Polytechnic, highlighted how this collaboration would open new avenues for students in both business administration and computer science.
The ceremony concluded with the National Anthems of Canada and India, followed by a Vote of Thanks from Dr. Dharmesh Shah, Provost of GLS University.
This initiative marks a transformative moment for GLS University and Seneca Polytechnic, offering students the opportunity to earn an international degree while gaining exposure to global educational standards.
For further information or media inquiries, please contact: Ms. Hima Trivedi (Ph:- +91 9426848890; E: media@glsuniversity.ac.in)
