Manipal Academy of Higher Education (MAHE), in collaboration with Deakin University, hosted the grand finale of the Vice Chancellor’s Meritorious 50 per-cent Scholarship 2026-Deakin India HUBs in Manipal,on Monday, March 30.

The prestigious scholarship initiative recognised outstanding students from MAHE institutions for their academic excellence, leadership potential, and global outlook, while celebrating the over 20‑year‑long partnership between MAHE and Deakin University encompassing student mobility, joint research, and academic collaboration.

Following a rigorous multi‑stage selection process, seven finalists were shortlisted to present their ideas at the in‑person finale themed “Youth at the Crossroads: Shaping the India‑Australia Growth Story,” where participants delivered three‑minute elevator pitches and engaged with the jury, highlighting innovative, feasible solutions to global challenges that reinforced the growing India–Australia partnership. Ms. Sristi Omprakash Yadav and Ms. Snigdha Suman Das were awarded the highly competitive 50% tuition fee scholarship to pursue higher education at Deakin University, Australia.

The event was graced by distinguished members of the Deakin delegation, including Dr. Bas Baskaran, Associate Dean (International and Partnerships), Faculty of Science, Engineering and Built Environment (SEBE), along with senior officials and representatives from MAHE. The winners were felicitated by Lt. Gen. (Dr) M. D. Venkatesh, VSM (Retd.), Vice Chancellor, MAHE, and Cdr. Dr. Anil Rana, Director, MIT Manipal, in the presence of senior leaders from both institutions.

The initiative highlights the shared commitment of MAHE and Deakin University to developing globally competent graduates and promoting meaningful cross‑cultural academic exchange.