International students including Indians are always welcome, says UK’s new Universities Minister

The recently appointed British Universities Minister, Bridget Phillipson MP, gave a major speech to diplomats from all around the world in which she reassured prospective overseas students, especially those from India about studying in the UK.

In contrast to earlier administrations, Phillipson’s address emphasized the UK’s dedication to creating a friendly atmosphere for overseas 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 emphasized the important contributions that overseas students make to British communities and universities. “The impact they have made to our colleges, communities, and nation is valued by the current administration. “I want those who meet the requirements to come study here in Britain to be welcomed,” she said.

Additionally, Phillipson stressed the value of working with foreign partners to promote creativity and innovation. “As partners in the pursuit of improvement, the more we collaborate, the more progress we will witness in the world. Closed systems that solely consider themselves soon run out of creative juice. The same ideas circle back on themselves, creativity collapses, and innovation dies,she said.

Students, colleges, and higher education providers enjoyed the Minister’s remarks. The government’s new strategy, which clearly welcomes and values international students, has been praised by the UK Council for International Student Affairs.

Leading British universities, represented by the Russell Group, likewise applauded the government’s unambiguous statement and expressed hope that it would end earlier political disputes.

The Minister’s speech was commended by Ruth Arnold, the creator of the #WeAreInternational campaign and Executive Director of External Affairs at Study Group, an organization that offers international education. “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 said.

“These folks are courageous, as the Minister correctly stated. They relocate to a new culture, far from their relatives and homes. They take a risk in the hopes of learning new abilities and exploring uncharted territory. I have observed this in action over the years, as well as how studying in Britain has given them access to a plethora of new options. Families who work hard to support these youngsters deserve our respect, which is why we do. We will use every effort to support their success, as the Minister has pledged,” Arnold remarked.