We welcome comments by the UK Secretary of State for Education Bridget Phillipson that the new UK Government recognises the enormous contribution international students make to our higher education sector, university communities and the UK as a whole.
The Education Secretary set out her approach to international students at the Education Embassy Conference in London on Tuesday 23 July.
She said: “Be in no doubt: international students are welcome in the UK. This new government values their contribution – to our universities, to our communities, to our country.”
She added: "Under this new government, opportunity is for everyone. And our international partnerships are central to this drive to spread opportunity far and wide. The more we work together, the more progress we will see in the world – partners in the push for better."
During the speech, the Education Secretary also reaffirmed the new UK Government’s commitment to the graduate route and the opportunity the UK’s higher education sector offers to people across the world.
She said: “These people are brave. They move to a new culture, far away from their homes and their families.
“They take a leap of faith, hoping to develop new skills and chase new horizons. And I am enormously proud that so many want to take that leap here in the UK.
“And we will do everything we can to help them succeed.
“That’s why we offer the opportunity to remain in the UK on a graduate visa for two years after their studies end – or three for PhDs – to work, to live, and to contribute.
“While this government is committed to managing migration carefully, international students will always be welcome in this country.”
In response to the speech, Dr Tim Bradshaw, Chief Executive of the Russell Group of research-intensive UK universities, of which Durham is a member, said: “The Secretary of State is absolutely right to say international students make an enormous contribution to our university communities, bringing energy and new perspectives that enrich the learning environment for everyone.
"The UK is a great place to study for undergraduate and postgraduate degrees and the clear message from the government today is that talented students from around the world will find a warm welcome here.
"We hope these positive comments will draw a line under previous political rows and herald more stability in student migration policy. In turn, this will enable universities to develop longer-term plans that will not only benefit students but will help deliver on other key priorities such as local and regional economic growth."
Image caption: During a recent visit to Durham campus, Bridget Phillipson MP (centre) met our Vice-Chancellor, Professor Karen O’Brien (second right), and leaders from other North East England universities. Also pictured are (left to right) – Professor Michael Young, Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Academic), University of Sunderland, Professor Chris Day, Vice-Chancellor, Newcastle University, Professor Andy Long, Vice-Chancellor, Northumbria University.
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