“A lot of foreign universities are interested in potentially setting up in Mauritius”

Mauritius is rapidly emerging as a hub for global education, attracting students and universities from around the world. According to Rohit Jaishankar, Marketing Manager of Campus Abroad, the demand for diverse programs ranging from engineering and medicine to emerging fields like artificial intelligence is growing steadily. Mr Jaishankar added that students are exploring both local and international opportunities, while universities see Mauritius as a strategic destination offering quality education, cost-effectiveness, and the chance to attract learners from across Africa.

Have you noticed any demand for specific subjects among students?

Demand is quite diverse. I think it is across the field, to be honest. Engineering and computer science remain popular programs, but medicine is also in high demand. I think that online programs have started to pick up and fields like artificial intelligence are emerging. Students are exploring multiple options rather than sticking to a single program.

Is there interest in particular universities or destinations?

In fact, I must tell you that the thing with the market is that interest levels will keep changing over time. Today, the United Kingdom may be popular but, tomorrow, it could be somewhere else. The established destinations are still there, but students are also looking at new markets like Dubai or Asia in general. Malaysia is becoming a popular destination. So, students are now looking at more options when compared to maybe a few years ago, when everybody was looking at the same destinations. These destinations are still very popular, but students are now open to the idea of looking at alternate options as well. As you can see, there is also a good number of local institutions present at our fair. We had the same in November. So, it tells you that there are enough students looking at studying, at least initially, over here in Mauritius, and then, maybe, looking at going abroad for postgraduate study.

How does budget influence the choice of students?

Costs vary widely. For example, if you go to Malaysia, for instance, it will be a lot more affordable than going to the UK or Australia. But even within the UK and Australia, it depends on the university that you choose. Some universities could be USD 15,000 to USD 20,000 a year, and others could be USD 60,000 a year! So, it really depends on the university that they are choosing. On the other hand, Mauritius offers a cost- effective alternative, especially when students can get globally recognized degrees locally.

What incentives is the government offering to those who want to pursue their tertiary academic journey?

In Mauritius, we have the Laureate scheme, and it is very impactful. I think that it is a very good scheme because, as you know, they cover the cost of not just tuition, but also the cost of accommodation and living expenses. So, everything is covered for those top few students, and that is a great achievement. I must add that there are a few Laureate students who have actually applied through us. Besides the Laureate scheme, a lot of scholarships are given out by the government. 

How has the local education scene in Mauritius changed over the years?

I think that markets keep changing. Compared to 15 years ago, Mauritius now has a wider range of institutions. Back then, it was mostly the University of Mauritius. Now, universities like Curtin University, University of Central Lancashire, and partnerships like Rushmore with United Kingdom universities have expanded options locally. Students can start here and later pursue postgraduate studies abroad.

From your 15 years of experience in this sector, what are the changes that you have noted?

I have been active for about 15 years in this field, whereas Campus Abroad has been in

existence for about 25 years. Markets constantly change. Students are looking at exploring different options. It never stays constant. At the moment, you may have one or two most popular destinations and, two years down the line, it will be different. For example, the UK was popular a few years ago. Then, for a few years, it probably was not doing as well. Now it is back again. So, it is a market that keeps changing. On the other hand, online education is growing at a fast pace. Locally, there are now more options for students than ever before, giving them the flexibility to explore different paths compared to 15 years ago, when there were hardly any options over here. You had the University of Mauritius, but not really a whole lot else. Now you have so many institutions that are set up in Mauritius. You have Curtin, Vattel and Uclan, amongst others.

Is there a demand from international universities to set up in Mauritius?

I think that a lot of universities are interested in potentially setting up here in Mauritius. As you know, JSS of Mysore, in India, have recently set up their campus here, and we have helped them in their efforts. There is a demand for setting up here as a lot of people are looking at it not just for Mauritians, but also to bring students from different parts of the world. Take Medine for instance; they have a lot of options available today. So, there are lots of universities interested in setting something up over here and targeting other markets, like Africa, in order to bring students from there to come and study here in Mauritius.

What is the main reason behind this interest?

Mauritius definitely stands out. The country is a destination offering excellent infrastructure, stability, safety, and cost-effectiveness. Universities can attract both local students and those from Africa or other regions. Students get globally recognized degrees at a fraction of the cost of studying abroad. If you decide to study in the UK or Australia, or wherever, it is going to be way more expensive for the same degree. So,

Mauritius is attractive. People coming from different parts of the world can have a comfortable three years of study in Mauritius, enjoy what the country has to offer, and then go back with a qualification that is globally recognized.

What message would you give to students who attended the education fair organised by Campus Abroad?

It is a fantastic opportunity to meet representatives from around the world. Talk to them, network, and explore the many options available. There has never been a better time to explore global education opportunities. We have representatives from the UK, from Australia, from Canada, from Germany, from all over the world. So, I would just say to them to make use of the fact that these people are here in Mauritius. Have conversations with them. 

Contact details:

Campus Abroad | 34, Vandermeersch Street, Rose Hill, Mauritius.

Tel: (+230) 467-6200
| (+230) 294-6655

Email:  [email protected]

About Campus Abroad

Campus Abroad Mauritius Ltd was set up in 2001, with the purpose of helping Mauritian students to realize their dreams of an overseas education.  Campus Abroad has formal associations with over 100 universities and institutions worldwide.  Some of the institutions Campus Abroad works with include the University of Bristol, University of Edinburgh, University of Birmingham in UK, Monash University, University of Adelaide, University of New South Wales in Australia, University of Waterloo, Western University and University of British Columbia in Canada.

Campus Abroad has forged a new partnership for online Education with Upgrad. Through this several Masters programs including DBA, MBA, Master in Artificial Intelligence, Masters in Data Analytics etc. from prestigious universities like Deakin, Golden Gate, Liverpool John Moores etc are available to Mauritian students at a fraction of the price compared to studying on campus.

Further Campus Abroad has entered into an tie up with JSS Academy of Higher Education and Research, Mauritius to promote their range of programs which include a program in Pharmacy. Considering the shortage of Pharmacists in Mauritius we would strongly advise students to check out this program. Campus Abroad is registered with UCAS for UK university admissions.  Campus Abroad is licensed by the Ministry of Education, Mauritius for recruitment of students for overseas study.

A team of counselors is always available at the office of Campus Abroad to guide and advise students. Information on scholarship opportunities, visa procedures, accommodation and travel are also provided in addition to application procedures. Students are welcome to use the internet browsing service at the office of Campus Abroad to browse for available choices and also file online applications. No fee is levied for these services.

Several laureates from Mauritius have used the services of Campus Abroad for applying overseas. Many of them are now studying in world class universities thanks to the help rendered by Campus Abroad.