Cambridge and Panjab University partner to boost student employability with global English skills

Panjab University’s English & Cultural Studies Department becomes a designated Cambridge English Education Partner (CEEP)

Chandigarh, July 29, 2025 — In a significant step toward enhancing employability and global readiness among university students, Cambridge University Press & Assessment and Panjab University, Chandigarh, have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to launch a collaborative English language programme under the Cambridge English Education Partner (CEEP) initiative.

This strategic partnership establishes the Department of English and Cultural Studies at Panjab University as a Cambridge English Education Partner (CEEP), enabling students to access internationally benchmarked English language instruction and certifications that align with global standards of communication and workplace readiness. The programme, in its first year, is expected to benefit as many as 1000 students.

Arunachalam TK, Regional Director, English, South Asia, said, “We are incredibly excited to collaborate with Panjab University on this forward-thinking initiative. Through the Cambridge English Education Partner programme, we aim to enhance the effectiveness and engagement of English language learning, creating meaningful impact for students across the region. This partnership supports their academic growth and strengthens their readiness for future opportunities.”

Prof. Meenu A. Gupta, Chairperson of the Department of English and Cultural Studies, said, “This partnership with Cambridge is a pivotal moment for our students, enabling us to deliver high-quality English language education rooted in international standards. It’s about building a robust foundation that empowers them with the confidence and competence needed to thrive in a globalised professional landscape, ensuring they are not just proficient, but truly effective communicators.”

As part of the collaboration, Panjab University will introduce a hybrid Communication Skills course under its skill enhancement programme. Designed to integrate traditional classroom learning with advanced digital resources, the course offers students a dynamic, flexible learning experience. The programme will begin in the current academic session, with enrollment opening to students across all faculties and affiliated colleges.

The course is structured to provide a balanced and immersive learning experience, combining 30 hours of in-person instruction led by Cambridge-trained educators with access to the Cambridge Evolve digital platform for flexible, self-paced learning. To further enhance their credentials, students will also have the option to take Linguaskill, Cambridge’s AI-powered English proficiency test, which is aligned with the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR)—a globally recognised standard for assessing language ability. Students who complete the foundation-level course will receive joint certification from Panjab University and Cambridge, enhancing their academic credentials and employability.

Distinct from many similar programmes currently offered at a high cost, this initiative provides an accessible and high-quality alternative, thus democratising opportunities for students across socio-economic backgrounds. The collaboration is expected to enhance career prospects, professional competence and also contribute meaningfully to the development of a trustworthy and ethically responsible academic and social environment.

The MoU signing ceremony was attended by senior university officials including Prof Y.P. Verma, Registrar, Panjab University; Prof. Meenu A. Gupta, Chairperson, Department of English and Cultural Studies; and Prof. Akshaya Kumar, Senior Faculty Member, Department of English and Cultural Studies. This initiative also responds to recent findings from NITI Aayog, which identified limited English proficiency as a key barrier to employability among graduates of public universities. The policy body has recommended that higher education institutions engage with international language providers to improve outcomes—citing successful state-level models in Punjab and Karnataka.

Prof. Y.P. Verma, Registrar, Panjab University, added, “The introduction of this hybrid English communication programme is a testament to Panjab University’s unwavering commitment to fostering global readiness and lifelong learning among our students. By integrating cutting-edge digital tools with expert instruction, we are proactively equipping them with the essential communication skills”

This partnership envisions active participation from stakeholders across all disciplines and affiliated colleges of Panjab University, with a focus on inclusivity, academic excellence, and ethical orientation. College and institutional authorities are encouraged to integrate this programme into their induction and orientation sessions to facilitate wider student participation from the very beginning of their academic journey.

This MoU marks a significant step in aligning academic vision with global best practices, while reinforcing Panjab University’s commitment to inclusive, future-ready education.