In a significant address to diplomats from around the world, Bridget Phillipson MP, the newly appointed British Universities Minister, conveyed a strong message of reassurance to international students, particularly those from India, who are considering studying in the United Kingdom.
Phillipson's speech marked a shift in tone from previous governments, emphasizing the UK's commitment to fostering a welcoming environment for international students.
"International students will always be welcome in this country. I want to set the record straight on international students. I know there’s been some mixed messaging from governments in the past. This government will take a different approach, and we will speak clearly," Phillipson said.
The Minister highlighted the value that international students bring to British universities and communities, noting their significant contributions. "This new government values their contribution – to our universities, to our communities, to our country. I want Britain to welcome those who want to come to these shores to study, and meet the requirements to do so," she said.
Phillipson also emphasized the importance of collaboration with international partners to foster innovation and creativity. "The more we work together, the more progress we will see in the world – partners in the push for better. Closed systems that only look inward quickly run out of ideas. Creativity crumbles, innovation dies, the same thoughts spin round and round and collapse in on themselves," she said.
The Minister's comments were well-received by students, universities, and higher education providers. The UK Council for International Student Affairs expressed delight at the government's new approach, which explicitly welcomes and values international students.
The Russell Group, representing leading British universities, also welcomed the government's clear message, hoping it would put an end to previous political controversies.
Ruth Arnold, founder of the #WeAreInternational campaign and Executive Director of External Affairs at Study Group, an international education provider, praised the Minister's speech. "The Minister’s speech was music to the ears of all of us who have fought to support international and Indian students and who count them as our inspiration and our lasting friends, whether they go on to careers around the world after graduation or make a vital contribution to communities here in the UK," Arnold remarked.
"As the Minister rightly 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.' Over the years, I have seen that in practice and the way that studying in Britain has opened up so many new opportunities and possibilities for them. We should honor that endeavor, the work of families to support such students, and we do. As the Minister promised, we will do everything we can to help them succeed," Arnold said.
Phillipson's speech marked a shift in tone from previous governments, emphasizing the UK's commitment to fostering a welcoming environment for international students.
"International students will always be welcome in this country. I want to set the record straight on international students. I know there’s been some mixed messaging from governments in the past. This government will take a different approach, and we will speak clearly," Phillipson said.
The Minister highlighted the value that international students bring to British universities and communities, noting their significant contributions. "This new government values their contribution – to our universities, to our communities, to our country. I want Britain to welcome those who want to come to these shores to study, and meet the requirements to do so," she said.
Phillipson also emphasized the importance of collaboration with international partners to foster innovation and creativity. "The more we work together, the more progress we will see in the world – partners in the push for better. Closed systems that only look inward quickly run out of ideas. Creativity crumbles, innovation dies, the same thoughts spin round and round and collapse in on themselves," she said.
The Minister's comments were well-received by students, universities, and higher education providers. The UK Council for International Student Affairs expressed delight at the government's new approach, which explicitly welcomes and values international students.
The Russell Group, representing leading British universities, also welcomed the government's clear message, hoping it would put an end to previous political controversies.
Ruth Arnold, founder of the #WeAreInternational campaign and Executive Director of External Affairs at Study Group, an international education provider, praised the Minister's speech. "The Minister’s speech was music to the ears of all of us who have fought to support international and Indian students and who count them as our inspiration and our lasting friends, whether they go on to careers around the world after graduation or make a vital contribution to communities here in the UK," Arnold remarked.
"As the Minister rightly 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.' Over the years, I have seen that in practice and the way that studying in Britain has opened up so many new opportunities and possibilities for them. We should honor that endeavor, the work of families to support such students, and we do. As the Minister promised, we will do everything we can to help them succeed," Arnold said.
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