Russia emerges as top destination for Indian engineering students, offers scholarships and job opportunities
Moscow (The Uttam Hindu): Russia is no longer just a center for medical or MBBS studies for Indian students, but it is emerging as a major hub for engineering and technical education. Due to world-class education at low cost and guaranteed job after completion of studies, the inclination of Indian students towards Russia is now increasing rapidly. Especially Russian courses in fields like mechanical, defense, aerospace, IT and electronics are attracting a lot of Indian youth. The universities here are not only providing excellent education but are also opening doors of employment for foreign students.
The biggest reason for the growing demand for technical students in Russia is the severe shortage of skilled workers there. According to one estimate, by the year 2030, Russia will need approximately 3.1 million new workers to run its economy. This is why Russian companies are showing a large interest in hiring professionals from countries like India. Currently, there is a severe shortage of workers in sectors like construction, textiles, manufacturing, machinery, electronics, IT, telecommunications, and transport, and Indian engineers are being readily accepted to fill this gap.
Statistics indicate that approximately 14,000 Indians currently reside in Russia, including approximately 500 businessmen and 4,500 students. While 90 percent of these students still pursue MBBS, the number of students enrolling in courses such as engineering, computer science, aeronautical design, and agriculture is also increasing. Institutions such as South Ural State University, Ural Federal University, ITMO, Tomsk State University, and Lomonosov Moscow State University are now becoming students' preferred destinations.
Russia is proving to be a goldmine for Indian students in terms of career prospects. Students pursuing engineering degrees here receive attractive salary packages ranging from ₹1.6 million to ₹6 million annually. Salary packages are highest in the defense, mechanical, and aerospace sectors. Furthermore, to attract talented Indian students, the Russian government has launched a plan to offer 200 government scholarships, under which the government will cover the entire cost of their education and living expenses.