International Relations
Context: Indians, who represent the second largest cohort of international students in some of the world’s most developed economies, are strongly overrepresented in STEM (science, technology, engineering and mathematics) subjects, particularly in engineering, according to The International Migration Outlook Report 2022.
Findings of the report:
- The 2022 edition of International Migration Outlook analyses recent developments in migration movements and the labour market inclusion of immigrants in OECD countries. It also monitors recent policy changes in migration governance and integration in OECD countries.
- During 2017/18, nearly half of the international students in the USA were studying STEM subjects, and this share was around 79 per cent for Indian students, substantially more than the Chinese (45 per cent).
- Germany reported three large groups of international students primarily enrolled in engineering fields in 2021 out of which Indian students constituted a total of 66 per cent surpassing Chinese students who accounted for a total of 50 per cent.
- In 2016-17, more than half of the Indian students in the Netherlands were admitted to engineering degree programs.
- Factors that Indian students take into consideration before moving abroad for higher education.
- lower fees and a prospective job market.
- geographical proximity,
- the language of instruction,
- policies regarding access to the labor market even during the course of study.
- Therefore, countries like Australia, Norway, Germany, and Switzerland see an influx of Indian students.
Source: Indian Express
