Germanna Community College may soon establish a student exchange program in India.
A small committee recently traveled to six Indian cities to look at opportunities in information technology, history and culture.
Officials say Germanna would be the first in the Virginia Community College System to establish connections there.
"The world is a smaller place these days," said Frances Lea, associate professor of economics and marketing, who is on the committee. "I think Germanna is very aware of that, and part of our educational obligation is to make students more aware."
Associate professor of English Sunithi Gnanadoss, who is a native of India, said she hopes the relationship will dispel negative connotations associated with the country. When people consider India, she said, they often think of Americans losing jobs to outsourcing.
Gnanadoss sees opportunities instead: Student exchange could provide internships at information technology centers and jobs tutoring English.
Unlike study-abroad programs in Europe, where some customs are similar to American culture, India would expose students to an entirely new environment, Gnanadoss said.
"It will stretch them in ways they have not been stretched," she said.
Some Indian classrooms don't have computers, although technology centers may be nearby, Gnanadoss said. Indian professors, known as gurus, are highly respected and teach at a fast pace.
One challenge is to keep it affordable for students.
The Germanna Educational Foundation funded the trip, which cost approximately $12,000, with funds earmarked for professional development. No state or local funds were involved.
The project is in its early stages, and officials are hesitant to disclose details.
Director of Workforce and Community Education Martha O'Keefe said the program would bridge a gap between the cultures.
"I think it will lead to just a better understanding of the business climate in India," she said.
Karen Bolipata 540/374-5418
Email: kbolipata@freelancestar.com