The University of East London (UEL) today announced that Chennai will be the location of its first South Asia Careers Hub, marking a major milestone in its long-term strategic commitment to India and the wider region.
Planned to open in Autumn 2026, the Hub will serve India and South Asia, combining international academic practice with regional community and industry perspectives. The Hub will bring together students, employers, researchers and entrepreneurs to create practical experiences for learning and knowledge exchange, including through internships, live industry projects, executive education, applied research partnerships and support for start-ups.
The Hub’s initial academic focus will be on Health and Behavioural Sciences, Engineering, Business Management and Psychology — areas closely aligned with Tamil Nadu’s priorities on healthcare, life sciences, advanced manufacturing and inclusive development. Developed in partnership with the Tamil Nadu Industrial Development Corporation (TIDCO) and the Government of Tamil Nadu, the Hub will work directly with industry to give students and professionals hands-on experience, while supporting fast-growing sectors such as advanced manufacturing, health technologies, digital innovation, and the creative economy.
The announcement was made at the India International Higher Education Summit (IGES), where Professor Amanda Broderick, Vice-Chancellor and President of UEL, is leading the University’s delegation.
Professor Amanda Broderick, Vice-Chancellor and President of the University of East London, said,
“India is one of the most dynamic education and innovation markets in the world, and Chennai is at the heart of that momentum. The launch of our first South Asia Careers Hub represents a major step in UEL’s long-term commitment to India, bringing our careers-first, enterprise-led education model directly into partnership with government, industry and academia.”
“This collaboration with the Government of Tamil Nadu and TIDCO allows us to co-create globally relevant, industry-embedded education, applied research and workforce development that delivers real impact — for students, employers and society. Together, we are building new pathways for talent, innovation and inclusive growth that will shape the future workforce across India and South Asia.”
The Hub will support alumni engagement across India and South Asia, strengthening links between education, employers and lifelong learning, while creating new opportunities for academic and research collaboration in the years ahead.
Government of Tamil Nadu Statement
Tamil Nadu welcomes the decision by the University of East London to establish its first South Asia Careers Hub in Chennai, reinforcing the state’s position as India’s leading destination for global education, advanced skills and innovation-led growth.
Formalised through a Memorandum of Understanding with TIDCO, this initiative reflects international confidence in Tamil Nadu’s governance, talent ecosystem and policy stability, strengthening its reputation as the preferred destination for high-quality global universities.
Planned to open in 2026, the Hub will play a central role in advancing Tamil Nadu’s objectives for high-value job creation, skills development and inclusive economic growth. This partnership is fully aligned with the India–UK Vision 2035 and Tamil Nadu’s ambition to position itself as a global gateway for education, innovation and talent mobility.