Manipal, April 02, 2026:  Manipal Academy of Higher Education (MAHE), an Institution of Eminence Deemed to be University, in collaboration with Deakin University, hosted the grand finale of the Vice Chancellor’s Meritorious 50 per-cent Scholarship 2026-Deakin India HUBs at the MIT Central Library Auditorium, Manipal, Karnataka.

This prestigious scholarship initiative recognises outstanding students from MAHE institutions who demonstrate academic excellence, leadership potential, and a strong global outlook. The event also celebrated the longstanding partnership between MAHE and Deakin University, spanning over two decades and encompassing student mobility, joint research, and academic collaborations.

Following a rigorous multi-stage selection process, including video-based screening, academic and profile evaluation, and virtual interviews, seven exceptional finalists were shortlisted to present their ideas at the in-person finale. The theme of the final round, “Youth at the Crossroads: Shaping the India-Australia Growth Story,” encouraged participants to propose innovative, forward-thinking solutions to strengthen bilateral engagement between India and Australia.

Each finalist delivered a three-minute elevator pitch, followed by an interactive session with the jury. The presentations highlighted innovative approaches to global challenges while reinforcing the importance of the India-Australia partnership. The evaluation panel, comprising senior academic and administrative leaders from both institutions, assessed participants on clarity of thought, originality, feasibility of ideas, and alignment with partnership priorities.

Sristi Omprakash Yadav and Snigdha Suman Das were declared winners and awarded the highly competitive 50% tuition fee scholarship to pursue higher education at Deakin University in Australia.

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

The initiative underscores the shared commitment of MAHE and Deakin University to nurturing globally competent graduates and fostering cross-cultural academic exchange. By empowering young minds to contribute meaningfully to international collaboration, the scholarship programme continues to strengthen the India-Australia education corridor and create pathways for future leaders.