U.S. Secretary of Education Margaret Spellings traveled to Bangalore, India to join U.S. Senators on their visit as they learn more about foreign educational systems and the implications to U.S. competitiveness in the emerging world market. The delegation included Senators Mike Enzi of Wyoming, Lamar Alexander of Tennessee, and Johnny Isakson of Georgia.

In the past two days, Secretary Spellings toured the Texas Instruments facility, the General Electric (GE) John F. Welch Technology Center, and Infosys Complex in Bangalore, India. She also participated in meetings with Google India, the American chamber of commerce in India and the Indo-American and Bangalore chambers of commerce.

In order to meet the demands of a changing world, Secretary Spellings has highlighted the need for an increased focus on math, science, technology and critical foreign languages through the American Competitiveness Initiative.

"Halfway through my visit to India, I've been struck by the strong belief both our nations share in the power of education," said Secretary Spellings. "As we work in the United States to increase academic rigor and enhance math and science, the same focus is driving education on the other side of the world. Business and civic leaders we have talked to here agree that a strong background in math and science is critical to success in the 21st century.

"This trip has provided a powerful reminder that technology has leveled the playing field, and we must equip our students with the skills they need to compete and succeed in the new global economy. In both our countries, education is seen as the key to opportunity. Working together, we can give all our students the ability to seize that opportunity and realize their potential."

For fact sheets on the American Competitiveness Initiative, please visit: http://www.ed.gov/news/opeds/factsheets/index.html

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