Universities Wales Champions Ethical, Inclusive International Education Strategy

Taith Programme and Medr Commission Drive Wales's Internationalisation Efforts

Wales has consistently championed the principles of internationalism, forging lasting connections with nations and communities worldwide. This commitment is reflected in the country’s tertiary education sector, which has played a pivotal role in enhancing Wales’s global presence and its appeal as a welcoming destination for international students. Building on this legacy, Universities Wales recently released a report advocating for a strategic approach to international education and research. The proposed strategies ensure that Wales remains an open and inclusive destination, offering world-class educational opportunities to international students.

To further these efforts, the creation of Medr, Wales’s new Commission for Tertiary Education and Research, represents a significant opportunity to develop a forward-thinking vision for international post-16 education. The Wales Beyond Borders report offers comprehensive recommendations to assist Medr in realising this vision, aligning its goals with the Welsh government’s commitment to enhancing Wales’s global profile and stimulating economic growth. These recommendations were shaped by an expert panel, whose consultation and insights combined local perspectives with global ideas to create an inclusive framework for international education.

The report builds on Wales’s solid foundations in education, particularly its innovative response to Brexit through the Taith mobility programme. By providing two-way mobility opportunities, Taith positions Wales as an outward-looking nation and partially compensates for the loss of Erasmus+ reciprocity. Advocating for the extension of Taith, Universities Wales underscores its importance in sustaining global engagement within the tertiary sector.

Furthermore, additional funding has been announced for the Global Wales programme, which supports the transition to the Medr framework. This initiative facilitates access to international partnerships and funding for Welsh colleges and universities, while also enhancing Wales’s reputation as a leading destination for international students through the "Study in Wales" brand. The report highlights that student experience should remain central to international education efforts. It emphasizes the need for institutions to prioritize ethical practices, sustainable engagement, and community interests. Despite financial challenges, the tertiary sector is presented with opportunities for innovation, dedication, and progress in internationalisation. International students are recognized as key contributors, enriching both campus and community life and fostering a strong sense of inclusivity across Wales.

Furthermore, the report notes that international students bring invaluable knowledge, perspectives, and cultural diversity to Wales. Their presence inspires future global learners to study in Wales, further expanding their horizons. A vice-chancellor highlighted that international education and intercultural outlooks are integral to shaping the future of education not only in Wales but also in the UK and globally. The report underscores the importance of international students and their contributions, reaffirming Wales’s commitment to fostering a collaborative and inclusive environment for global education.

Editor's Note:

Wales has consistently demonstrated its commitment to internationalism, making it a welcoming and inclusive destination for students worldwide. The release of the Wales Beyond Borders report by Universities Wales marks another step forward, offering strategic recommendations to ensure the continued growth of international education and research in the country. With initiatives like the Taith Mobility Programme and the Global Wales programme, Wales is positioning itself as a global leader in fostering cross-cultural exchange and collaboration. By prioritizing ethical practices, student experience, and sustainable engagement, the report underscores the importance of international students in enriching Welsh communities and driving innovation across the tertiary sector. 

Based on insights from Skoobuzz, this approach reflects Wales's dedication to strengthening its global profile while inspiring future generations of international learners to pursue academic excellence and cultural exchange in the nation.