Coventry University appoints Yashodhara Dasgupta to lead India Hub operations in New Delhi
Coventry University, in the UK, has named Yashodhara Dasgupta as Managing Director of its India Hub, a New Delhi-based center established to strengthen partnerships across education, research, and innovation.
Her appointment supports the university’s goal of expanding its global footprint and fostering closer ties with Indian institutions and public sector organizations.
The India Hub, launched in 2023, forms part of Coventry University Group’s broader international strategy. The group is currently pursuing regulatory approval to open a branch campus in GIFT City, Gujarat, and could begin enrolling students there as early as 2026.
Background in public policy and trade
Dasgupta joins the university from the UK-India Business Council, where she led the India advocacy team in promoting British industry priorities. Her previous roles include positions at the UK Department for Business and Trade, the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office in India, and the US-India Business Council. Her work has centered on bilateral trade policy, economic diplomacy, and regulatory strategy.
The timing of the appointment follows the announcement of a UK-India trade agreement, which projects a potential £25 billion boost in trade by 2040 and highlights the growing importance of bilateral collaboration in higher education and skills development.
Yashodhara Dasgupta, Managing Director of Coventry University’s India Hub, says: “I am delighted to lead Coventry University’s India Hub and have the opportunity to build impact-driven collaboration between the University and India. Higher education, skilling, R&D and innovation are central pillars of India’s vision for progress — Coventry University’s excellence across these areas makes it a natural partner. I look forward to deepening our engagement, particularly against the backdrop of the UK-India FTA announced this week — it clearly demonstrates the priority both governments are placing on this relationship.”
University expands international presence
The India Hub is part of Coventry University’s wider network of Global Hubs, which includes locations in Africa, the Middle East, China, and Europe. The hubs are designed to facilitate partnerships, student exchange, and research collaboration. According to the university, this international model supports both domestic and overseas learners while fostering institutional cooperation.
Professor Richard Wells, Deputy Vice-Chancellor (International) at Coventry University Group, says: “The opening of our Hub in New Delhi last year signifies the importance Coventry University Group places on our relationship with India and the incredible benefits we believe our international approach can have, both for our students in the UK and the organisations we work with across the globe.
“With her background in the field of international trade, her work with organisations across a variety of sectors and her forward-thinking leadership experience, we believe Yashodhara will excel in her new role.”
