Mumbai-based startup upGrad to set up Institute of Medical Sciences in Vanuatu

To accelerate cross-border synergies between the two countries and put Vanuatu on the world map

upGrad, Asia's largest integrated learning skilling and workforce development company, has announced the setting up of upGrad Institute of Medical Sciences (UIMS), a fully-offline campus in the Republic of Vanuatu to attract and train global talent with modern-day clinical competencies and build the next crop of skilled medical practitioners. The company earmarks $10 million to launch the university. 

Vanuatu is a South Pacific Ocean nation made up of roughly 80 islands that stretch 1,300 kilometers. UIMS is expected to invite enrolments from the second half of June this year. The statement also refers to Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who unveiled a 12-point development agenda for Pacific Island Nations. This indicates that India's Prime Minister Modi has outlined a comprehensive plan for promoting development and cooperation with the Pacific Island Nations. The agenda is reported to focus on healthcare, renewable energy, and cyber-security as key areas of development.

Furthermore, the statement mentions that a significant budget has been allocated by Prime Minister Modi to construct a super-speciality cardiology hospital in Fiji. This implies that the Indian government is investing in healthcare infrastructure in Fiji to provide specialized cardiology services, indicating their commitment to supporting the healthcare needs of the Pacific Island Nations. 

The Mumbai-headquartered skilling giant has also committed $50,000 to Vanuatu Prime Minister's Relief Fund to further enhance healthcare services at the Port Vila Central Hospital in the region. It will provide the Govt. of Vanuatu with a new tranche of technology and financial aid and the ability to scale across boundaries.

Published on : 14th June, 2023