UK Delegation calls on D.Purandeswari
	11:1 IST

Mr. Bill Rammell, Minister of State at the Department for Education and Skill, Government of U.K. Education called on the Minister of State for Human Resource Development, Higher Education, Smt. D. Purandeswari here today. The meeting was a follow up action of the Joint Declaration of the Prime Minister Summit. On this occasion Smt. Purandeswari, said India is keen to have mutual collaboration in the field of Higher Education for the upgradation of its Institutions like the IITs, ISERs and setting up of a World class University. We want the help in the form of skill development, faculty support and necessary training, she added. The Secretary, Higher Education, Shri, R.P. Agrawal said that Hundred per cent F.D.I is allowed in India in the field of Education. He said that though India would welcome financial aid in the field of higher education however, we would be equally helped if assintance is provided in the form of experts for training and faculty development. He added that since new session starts from the month of July, we need faculty and teacher training facilities as early as possible. It was also mentioned by the visiting delegation that U.K. is to restructuring its skill development programme through associating industries and the employers. This initiative is aimed at toning the professional skills of young students. Secretary Higher Education expressed hope that India would be able to gain from U.K experience. Mr. Bill Rammell, Minister of State at the Department for Education and Skill Government of U.K. Education assured full support from their side and vouched for a joint collaboration in the areas identified. The delegation was informed by Minister of State, Higher Education that details relating to the collaborative efforts would be discussed in the meeting of the Education Forum to be held in London, UK on 18-19 July, 2008, HB/VL/MP