Ahmedabad: GLS University has announced the launch of India’s first Global B.Design (Hons.) programme in collaboration with Australia’s renowned SAE Institute—marking a significant milestone for creative media and technology education in the country. The pioneering four-year undergraduate programme offers globally benchmarked specialisations in Animation & VFX and Game Development, setting a new national standard for creative education.
Established in 1927 by the Gujarat Law Society, GLS University remains one of Gujarat’s most respected educational institutions. It is now the only institution in India authorised to offer SAE Institute’s internationally recognised curriculum and certification. This partnership also signifies SAE Institute’s formal entry into India, strengthening its commitment to contributing to the nation’s rapidly expanding creative economy.
SAE Institute—part of the Careers and Industry Division of the Navitas Group and a global leader for 50 years—operates 47 campuses across 20 countries, delivering world-class, project-based training in Animation, Audio, Computer Science, Design, Film, Games, IT, Music, VFX and Virtual Production.
The official signing ceremony was held on Monday in the presence of Mr. Sudhir Nanavati, President of GLS University, and Dr. Chandni Kapadia, Executive Director of GLS University, along with senior representatives from Navitas, including Jenna Schiller, Head of Education Partnerships, and Steve Hird, General Manager—Marketing & Recruitment for South Asia.
The newly launched Global B.Design (Hons.) programme brings together GLS University’s academic excellence and SAE Institute’s five decades of practice-led education. With a strong focus on hands-on, project-based learning, students will train in state-of-the-art studios using tools and workflows adopted by leading international creative studios.
The programme provides pathways for international immersion and exchange, enabling students to gain global exposure and industry insights crucial for success in the dynamic creative and technology sectors. Graduates will earn an SAE qualification, awarded as a B.Design (Hons.) by GLS University, enhancing their worldwide career mobility.
Mr. Sudhir Nanavati, President, GLS University, said: “This partnership with the esteemed SAE Institute is a milestone for GLS University and for India’s education system. We are committed to offering students a truly world-class education that prepares them to be leaders and innovators in the global creative economy.”
Dr. Chandni Kapadia, Executive Director, GLS University, said: “We are proud to partner with SAE Australia to launch the exclusive Global B.Design (Hons.) Programme in India. This collaboration bridges the gap in India’s rapidly growing creative industries by providing world-class education in Animation & VFX and Game Development. Our aim is to empower the next generation of Indian creators to not just succeed globally but to lead the future of creative media.”
Jenna Schiller, Head of Education Partnerships, Navitas, added: “We are thrilled to partner with GLS University to establish our presence in India. This collaboration ensures that the next generation of Indian creators receives the highest standard of technical and creative education, preparing them to join our global community of successful alumni working with major creative industry giants.”
Students will gain access to GLS University’s network of more than 1,000 industry partners, offering unmatched opportunities for internships, real-world projects, and placements with top studios in animation, VFX, and gaming. In addition, they will join the global SAE alumni community, connecting with creative professionals and industry experts worldwide. With this collaboration, GLS University reinforces its legacy of academic excellence and sets a new benchmark for creative media and technology education in India.