GLS University, Ahmedabad, has taken a pioneering step in creative media education by launching India’s first Global B.Design (Hons.) programme in Animation & VFX and Game Development, in collaboration with Australia’s SAE Institute. This landmark initiative marks a new chapter in globally aligned design education and positions GLS University at the forefront of innovation in the creative and technology-driven sectors.
Established in 1927 by the Gujarat Law Society (GLS), GLS University is among Gujarat’s most respected educational institutions. With this collaboration, it becomes the only university in India authorised to offer SAE Institute’s internationally recognised curriculum and certification. The partnership also signifies SAE Institute’s formal entry into India, reaffirming its commitment to nurturing the country’s rapidly expanding creative industries.
SAE Institute, part of the Careers and Industry Division of the Navitas Group, brings over 50 years of global expertise in creative media and technology education. With 47 campuses across 20 countries, SAE Institute is globally renowned for its practice-led, project-based learning in disciplines including Animation, Games, Design, Film, Audio, Music, IT, and VFX & Virtual Production.
The formal signing ceremony for the Global B.Design (Hons.) programme was held in the presence of Shri Sudhir Nanavati, President of GLS University, and Dr. Chandni Kapadia, Executive Director of GLS University. The event was further graced by senior representatives from Navitas, including Ms. Jenna Schiller, Head of Education Partnerships, Careers & Industry Division, and Mr. Steve Hird, General Manager – Marketing & Recruitment (South Asia), along with other distinguished dignitaries.
Designed as a four-year undergraduate programme, the Global B.Design (Hons.) aims to develop industry-ready professionals by combining GLS University’s academic strength with SAE Institute’s globally benchmarked, practice-driven pedagogy. The curriculum emphasises hands-on, project-based learning, enabling students to acquire practical skills from the very first year using state-of-the-art studios and industry-standard tools employed by leading global creative studios.
A key feature of the programme is its international immersion and exchange opportunities, offering students invaluable global exposure and cross-cultural learning experiences. Graduates will receive an SAE Institute qualification, accredited and awarded as a B.Design (Hons.) degree by GLS University, enhancing their global employability and career mobility.
Speaking on the occasion, Shri Sudhir Nanavati, President, GLS University, said,
“This partnership with the esteemed SAE Institute is a milestone not only for GLS University but also for India’s education ecosystem. Our objective is to offer students a truly world-class learning experience that prepares them to become leaders and innovators in the global creative economy.”
Dr. Chandni Kapadia, Executive Director, GLS University, added,
“We are proud to collaborate with SAE Australia to launch this exclusive Global B.Design (Hons.) programme in India. By bridging the skill gap in Animation, VFX, and Game Development, we aim to empower the next generation of Indian creators to excel globally and shape the future of creative media.”
Ms. Jenna Schiller, Head of Education Partnerships, Careers & Industry Division, Navitas, remarked,
“We are delighted to partner with GLS University as we establish our presence in India. This collaboration ensures that Indian students receive the highest standard of creative and technical education, preparing them to join our global community of successful alumni working with leading creative industry giants.”
Students enrolled in the programme will also benefit from GLS University’s extensive network of over 1,000 industry partners, providing access to internships, live projects, and employment opportunities with leading animation, VFX, and gaming companies. Additionally, students will become part of the global SAE community, gaining lifelong access to an international network of creative professionals and industry experts.
Through this strategic collaboration with SAE Institute, GLS University reinforces its commitment to quality, innovation, and global relevance, setting a new benchmark for higher education in India’s creative media and technology landscape.
