STEM Background
Event Report

Global STEM Education Centre
Inaugurated at
CHRIST (Deemed to be University)

A milestone for transnational academic cooperation between India and Australia, transforming STEM education

December 12, 2025
Bangalore Central Campus

In a milestone for transnational academic cooperation, CHRIST (Deemed to be University), India, in collaboration with Australian Catholic University (ACU), inaugurated the Global STEM Education Centre on 12 December 2025 at its Bangalore Central Campus. The initiative aims to transform STEM education across the Indo-Pacific through research, innovation, and inclusive teaching practices.

The Ceremony

The ceremony commenced at 8:45 AM, setting the stage for a morning of insightful addresses and the formal unveiling of the centre.

Introduction

Dr. Infanta Vincy

Lighting of the Lamp / Invocation

University Choir & Dignitaries

Welcome Address

Dr. Greta D’Souza Head, School of Education

Inaugural Address

Dr. Fr. Jose C.C. Vice Chancellor, CHRIST

Leadership Address

Prof. Julie Cogin Provost & Deputy VC, ACU

Unveiling of the Centre

Dr. Fr. Viju Pro Vice Chancellor

Address & Vote of Thanks

Dr. Sindu George Assoc. Prof, NSE Melbourne

CHRIST University Anthem

Concluding segment

Dr. Fr. Jose C.C.

"The Centre’s potential to empower educators and students with future-ready STEM capabilities rooted in ethical values and global relevance."

Dr. Fr. Jose C.C.

Vice Chancellor, CHRIST University

Centre’s Vision & Collaborative Scope

Teacher Development

Professional development for pre-service and in-service teachers to implement effective STEM strategies.

Research & AI

Collaborative research in artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, and digital literacy.

Inclusivity

Focus on inclusion of underrepresented groups, especially girls and marginalised communities.

Partnerships

University–school–community partnerships aligned with NEP 2020.

Distinguished Delegations

ACU Leadership

  • • Prof. Julie Cogin - Provost and Deputy Vice Chancellor (Academic)
  • • Prof. Larissa McLean Davies - Dean Faculty of Education and Arts
  • • Prof. Donna King - Head, National School of Education
  • • Prof. lain Hay - Associate Dean, Partnerships
  • • Prof. Andrew O'Neil - Dean, Graduate Research and International
  • • Prof. Robert Tai - Lead, ACU STEM Centre for Excellence
  • • Mr Paul Campbell - Deputy Chief Operating Officer
  • • Ms Gillian Rowlands - Program Officer, Strategic Programs
  • • Assoc Prof Belinda von Mengersen -Discipline Lead, Design Innovation and Technologies
  • • Aanya Roennfeldt-Bongers - Partnership and Programs, ACU STEM centre
  • • Natalia Barone - Digital Acquisition and Marketing
  • • Dr. Sindu George - Associate Prof, National School of Education
  • • Ms Bronwyn Bartsch - Director, Global Engagement
  • • Mr Peter Hawke - Head, International Partnership and Development

CHRIST University Leadership

  • • Dr. Fr. Jose C.C. (Vice Chancellor)
  • • Dr. Fr. Viju P.D. (Pro Vice Chancellor)
  • • Dr. Anil Joseph Pinto (Registrar)
  • • Dr. Surekha (Dean, School of Psychological Sciences)
  • • Dr. Fr. Sebastian Mathai (Director, School of Education)

Event Highlights

  • Unveiling of the Centre’s logo and website
  • Student exhibition showcasing innovations in robotics, AI, and sustainability
  • Interactive STEM lab experience for school students

Future Roadmap

The Global STEM Education Centre is poised to become a regional think tank driving policy reform and educational innovation across the Indo-Pacific.

Annual Summits Academic Exchanges Joint Publications

Recap of Events