EduConnect

Bhutan and Morocco Seek IIT Campuses as India’s Education Model Gains Global Demand


New Delhi, December 2025: India’s globally acclaimed technical education system continues to attract international attention, with Bhutan and Morocco formally requesting the establishment of Indian Institutes of Technology (IIT) campuses in their countries. Government sources confirmed that the proposals are part of a growing interest among nations seeking to replicate India’s successful higher education model.

The requests come on the heels of two landmark developments — the inauguration of IIT Madras in Zanzibar in November 2023 and the launch of IIT Delhi’s campus in Abu Dhabi earlier this year. These international campuses mark a significant shift in India’s education diplomacy and align with the country’s long-term goal of attracting one million international students by 2040.

The expansion of IITs overseas is a key component of India’s National Education Policy (NEP) 2020, which aims to internationalise Indian education and position the country as a global knowledge hub. Supporters of the initiative view the growing demand as a testament to the strength of the ‘Brand IIT’, widely regarded for its academic rigour, innovation, and contribution to global technology and research.

However, the move has also sparked debate domestically. While many celebrate the IITs’ global recognition, critics argue that India must first address challenges within its own institutions, including infrastructure gaps, faculty shortages, and the need to boost research output.

Despite differing opinions, the interest from Bhutan and Morocco highlights the IITs’ strong global reputation and reflects India’s rising influence in shaping international education frameworks. As discussions progress, the proposed campuses could further strengthen India’s role as a leading exporter of quality education and technical expertise.

Sports

Morocco Triumphs Over Jordan to Lift FIFA Arab Cup Qatar 2025™


Morocco lifted the FIFA Arab Cup Qatar 2025™ following an unforgettable 3-2 victory over Jordan in a gripping final at Lusail Stadium. The match, which went into extra time, saw Morocco produce a dramatic comeback led by striker Abderrazak Hamdallah, who scored a late equaliser and the winning goal in the 100th minute.

Jordan had initially taken the lead through a brace by tournament top-scorer Ali Olwan, after Oussama Tannane stunned the crowd with a spectacular long-range opener for Morocco inside four minutes. The Atlas Lions’ resilience and tactical discipline shone through, ensuring Morocco’s second major triumph in Qatar after their historic semi-final run in the 2022 FIFA World Cup™.

The FIFA Arab Cup Qatar 2025™ brought together 16 teams from Africa and Asia, showcasing the region’s footballing talent across six World Cup-ready stadiums. Morocco’s victory not only crowned them champions but also underscored their continued rise in international football. The tournament concluded alongside Qatar National Day celebrations, wrapping up a two-month period of major FIFA events in the Gulf, following Portugal’s U-17 World Cup win and PSG’s Intercontinental Cup success.

Fit & Fabulous

GUESS Celebrates Global Unity and Heritage with ‘One World, One Brand 2025’ in Marrakech


As GUESS approaches its 45th anniversary in 2026, the brand chose Marrakech, Morocco, as the stage for its global conference One World, One Brand 2025 — a vibrant celebration of creativity, heritage, and unity. The city holds deep personal meaning for Paul Marciano, GUESS’s Co-Founder and Chief Creative Officer, who was born there.

Now in its eighth edition, the conference brought together over 800 guests from 100 countries, marking one of the most ambitious gatherings in the brand’s history. The event unfolded over three days of inspiring conferences, fashion showcases, gala dinners, cocktail receptions, and luxurious experiences that reflected GUESS’s signature blend of glamour and authenticity.

The grand finale was a breathtaking fashion show at the El Badi Palace, an architectural marvel of 16th-century Morocco, where guests witnessed the unveiling of the Spring/Summer 2026 and Pre-Fall 2026 collections and a special MARCIANO by GUESS capsule created exclusively for Marrakech.

“It’s far beyond a corporate gathering,” said Paul Marciano. “One World, One Brand is about bringing people together from across the globe to share ideas, celebrate creativity, and experience the lifestyle that defines GUESS. I chose Morocco to honor my family’s humble beginnings and to showcase the beauty and progress of this country that shaped who I am.”

The overarching theme, Never Forget Your Roots, resonated throughout the event, paying tribute to Marciano’s Moroccan heritage and GUESS’s evolution from its iconic denim origins to a global lifestyle powerhouse.

Among the attendees were GUESS executives, business partners, and international talent, including Chiara Ferragni, Leonie Hanne, Lea Elui, Maura Higgins, Krystle D’Souza, and Andrea Brillantes, along with global media and fashion influencers. Guests experienced curated adventures across Morocco — from sidecar tours through Marrakech’s vibrant souks to hot-air balloon rides over the Agafay Desert and private explorations of the Medina.

To extend the celebration, GUESS will take over the luxurious White Camel glamping resort in the Agafay Desert through the fall season, offering immersive experiences and décor inspired by the brand’s iconic heritage.

As GUESS moves closer to its 45th anniversary, One World, One Brand 2025 stands as a symbol of its enduring vision — a world united by creativity, connection, and timeless style.