The Indian Super League (ISL) club Odisha FC has announced Staffordshire University as their new education and community partner.
According to Martin Jones, vice-chancellor and chief executive designate, Staffordshire University, India has always been an important market and the university has had some good students come and study with them over the years.
The university through the GREAT scholarship scheme in partnership with the British Council, and the relationship with Odisha FC is another example of how the institute would want to work closely in India with key partners to provide opportunities for students and staff in both organisations.
As Odisha FC’s education and community partner, Staffordshire University will look to work in collaboration with the state of Odisha, its colleges and universities to provide webinars and virtual learning which fits with its higher education course offer. The partnership will also work to develop student and staff exchange programmes, new education pathways and community and grassroots programmes.
According to Raj Athwal, president, Odisha FC, Staffordshire University has a strong reputation in the UK for providing a high-quality, industry-focused education to students, who come from all over the UK, and abroad, to study at this award-winning institution. Besides helping Odia students, this partnership is sure to have a positive impact on the lives of people throughout the state, as well as India, providing a variety of learning opportunities.
The university has forged closer ties with Stoke City FC and Port Vale FC, which have resulted in new courses, opportunities for students to gain work experience and community initiatives which engage with the fanbase.
Recently Odisha FC introduced the ground-breaking Global Football Alliance, which enables them and the State to reach out to communities around the world.