The government’s new UK International Education Strategy was announced today, setting a new £40 billion target for increasing education exports by 2030.
In response, University Alliance CEO Vanessa Wilson said:
“University Alliance welcomes the publication of the new UK International Education Strategy and supports its ambition to strengthen the UK’s global standing and deliver £40 billion in education exports by 2030.
However, it was disappointing to see that targets for international student recruitment have been dropped from this strategy. This, in combination with other measures like the International Student Levy, risks reducing demand for UK study.
International students bring substantial economic, diplomatic and civic benefits to the UK. They support local economies across the country, contribute thousands of volunteering hours in their communities and enrich the lives of home students. Through studying and living in the UK they form long‑term personal and professional ties that strengthen the UK’s global influence; exactly the kind of soft power the strategy aims to build. They also form a pipeline for developing the highly skilled researchers who drive economic growth.
International students are being undervalued by the government and represent an easy option for reducing immigration numbers. However, this is out of step with public opinion which polls show is overwhelmingly supportive of international students studying in the UK.
Government support for international students is essential for securing the UK’s interests in an increasingly competitive international market.”
