GEMS Education, the world’s largest private schools operator, on Monday announced that it will open the first South Indian campus at SmartCity, Kochi.
“Spread over eight acres at SmartCity, Kochi, the new International School will focus on experiential learning to enable the students to lead their life with confidence,” said Sunny Varkey, Founder and Chairman of GEMS Education.
“The school will be equipped with high-quality educational, developmental and sports facilities. A total built-up area of around 250,000 square feet is planned over three phases and the school will house a total of 3,000 students, primarily to support parents working at SmartCity. Another 150 to 200 teaching and non-teaching staff will be employed,” Varkey added.
He also signed an agreement with vice-chairman Abdullatif al-Mulla in this regard. Speaking on the newly-signed agreement, al-Mulla said SmartCity, Kochi was not only designed to create employment opportunities for the people of Kerala, but also to empower employers and employees of tomorrow.
“Quality education sows the seeds of the future, and is fundamental to the success of a thriving business township. We are delighted to take this first step with GEMS,” he added.
Speaking on the occasion, SmartCity managing director Baju George said the new institution will create a network of opportunities for both students and companies who could potentially collaborate on professional projects.
“With the first IT building scheduled for completion by December 2014, we will continue to develop the social infrastructure at SmartCity, Kochi, to attract and retain knowledge workers,” he said. The campus will be built in the Non Processing Zone (NPZ) of SmartCity. The NPZ will mainly house residential, hospitality and education facilities.