University of mysore attraction for Foreign students especial Tanzanian students.

MYSORE: Quality education and conducive atmosphere seems to have caught the attention of foreign students who want to pursue their higher education in University of Mysore. It is said that reportedly UoM has overtaken Pune University in terms of attracting more foreign students.

Their enrolment has witnessed a steady rise in the last couple of years. The university draws students from 47 countries, including USA, Russia, Canada, Maldives, Japan, Thailand, Kenya,Tanzania, Iran and Cambodia. Students pursue their undergraduate, postgraduate and research (PhD) courses here. The highest enrolment is for the undergraduate course. In 2001-02, it was just 263 students, while in 2010-11 it was 1,413. Students from Iran top the list with highest number of enrolments.Of the 1,413 students, 388 are from Iran, 74 students are pursuing their undergraduation, 176 students are doing postgraduation while 138 students are doing research (PhD). China seconds the list with 195 students, and is followed by 165 students from Tanzania.

M Chandra Kumar, in-charge director, UoM's International Centre, said, "The main reason for students choosing this university is that fees are affordable and ambience is ideal. Cost of living is the other factor, as compared to metros. University has set up International Centre to guide foreigners on academic matters."

"This year we are expecting a good number of students and it may cross 1,400 students," pointed Chandra Kumar. UoM registrar PS Nayak, has a different take on the issue. As UoM is a globally known university, students from foreign countries are looking towards it. "I know that Pune attracts many foreign students, but I think they are slowly turning towards Mysore for quality education attracts them. In addition to this, the hospitality of Mysoreans, city's environment make their life comfortable for them," he said.

Fayazuddin Ghiasi, president, Federation International Students Association, Mysore, said, "Apart from teaching, the faculty is very friendly and helps us whenever we need them."