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Apart from Sikh Society, the campus hosts Indian societies such as Sanskriti (for Indian international students), Hindu Yuva (Hindu Students’ Society) & Tamil Cultural Society
This year, the UWA Sikh Society organised a Langar (free community meal), which saw large participation and became a huge success. (News18)
Indian students at the University of Western Australia (UWA) are creating vibrant communities on campus by forming cultural and faith-based clubs that provide a sense of belonging far from home.
Meet Mehardeep Kaur, a student from Delhi pursuing a combined Bachelor and Master of Economics, who has been living at University Hall since 2023. She recently founded the UWA Sikh Society—the first such society in Western Australia. This year, the society organised a Langar (free community meal), which saw large participation and became a huge success.
Speaking to News18, Mehardeep said: “In 2023, we were looking for ways to connect and discuss our culture and faith. That’s when we decided to form the Sikh Society. We now have over 20 people on our committee, with many more attending our events. We welcome all students—regardless of background—to join us through conversations, food, and activities. Even our committee includes both Sikh and non-Sikh members. UWA clubs are very inclusive, and everyone contributes ideas for events.”
The campus also hosts other Indian societies such as Sanskriti (for Indian international students), Hindu Yuva (Hindu Students’ Society), and the Tamil Cultural Society (TCS).
Australia remains one of the top destinations for Indian students, with India being the second-largest source country for international enrolments in 2024. Students are drawn by world-class universities, liberal post-study work opportunities, and a strong economy with openings in fields such as business and healthcare. The Australian government has also reinforced its commitment to welcoming Indian students through robust quality assurance standards in education.
The Langar initiative this year has become a highlight of cultural activities at UWA. A student told News18: “It’s very important to practice our faith and culture wherever we are. Our university supports these activities and even provides funding when convinced. Seniors here also mentor juniors, ensuring they feel at home and are well-placed.”
Shiva Ram Velur Selvalumar, a biotechnology student from Chennai, echoed the sentiment: “A year ago, I was completely new and knew nothing. Now things are different because seniors take care of newcomers. Here, seniors become guides for juniors, and together we enjoy and grow.”
While Indian student societies nurture faith and cultural identity, UWA also offers Venture—its innovation hub that builds entrepreneurial skills. Through Venture, students pitch their ideas to industry experts, often securing funding or job opportunities.
Experts say this combination of holistic development—where cultural exchange meets innovation—is making UWA an increasingly attractive destination for Indian students.
UWA is set to make a historic move by establishing campuses in India by 2026. Approved under the University Grants Commission’s (UGC) new framework for foreign universities, UWA will open its first branch campuses in Chennai and Mumbai, making it one of the earliest globally ranked universities to invest in India’s higher education sector.
Kamalika Sengupta is the Editor (East) at CNN-News18 / News18.com, focusing on politics, defence, and women’s issues. She is a seasoned multimedia journalist with over 20 years of experience reporting from East…Read More
Kamalika Sengupta is the Editor (East) at CNN-News18 / News18.com, focusing on politics, defence, and women’s issues. She is a seasoned multimedia journalist with over 20 years of experience reporting from East… Read More
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