In an unprecedented educational honour for Indian academics, Prof. (Dr.) Upasana Mahanta, Dean of Admissions and Outreach at O.P. Jindal Global University (JGU), has been appointed as the First Indian to the Strategic Higher Education Advisory Council (SHEAC) formed by Cambridge International. This is the first time India is being represented at this global platform. 
 
SHEAC brings together senior leaders in admissions and student recruitment from some of the world’s most distinguished academic institutions—including the University of Oxford, MIT, University of Cambridge, University of Toronto, and Monash University. The Council plays a vital role in shaping the recognition, relevance, and future direction of Cambridge qualifications globally, ensuring they remain responsive to the changing dynamics of higher education worldwide.

Prof. Mahanta’s appointment is a significant recognition of the growing leadership of India in global academic forums. An Indian voice at SHEAC brings much-needed representation and perspective from the Global South to critical conversations impacting higher education. Her experience and leadership will make India’s role even more influential on international platforms like Cambridge. This appointment, a first for an Indian academic, will help in getting global recognition for the country’s achievements in the field of education.

Reflecting on her appointment, Prof. Mahanta shared: “It’s an incredible honour to join this global group of educators and policy leaders. I see this as an opportunity to represent not just JGU but also the aspirations of students and educators across India and the Global South. The world of education is transforming, and it’s vital that this transformation is guided by voices that are diverse, grounded, and globally minded.”

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