SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT THROUGH INTERNATIONAL EDUCATION: A PATHWAY FOR INDIA'S TRANSFORMATION

As the world becomes increasingly interconnected, international education has emerged as a critical tool for sustainable development, particularly in emerging economies like India. With over 6 million students studying abroad globally in 2023—a figure expected to reach 7 million by 2030 (UNESCO, 2023)—international academic mobility and cross-border collaborations are reshaping higher education systems worldwide. Despite possessing the world’s third-largest higher education network, India hosted only 48,035 international students in 2021–22 (AISHE, 2023), indicating a significant gap in its global educational presence. This paper explores the transformative role of international education in achieving sustainable development in India. It highlights how global educational partnerships, research collaborations, and student mobility contribute to economic growth, social inclusion, and environmental sustainability. The paper examines India's current position within the global education landscape and suggests pathways for leveraging international education to foster innovation, enhance workforce skills, and promote sustainable practices. By aligning the National Education Policy 2020 with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), the paper advocates for India’s transformation into an education hub that drives sustainable development through cross-border academic exchanges and global partnerships.