RCUK welcomes the Government’s new strategy to support transnational education

Research Councils UK (RCUK) welcomes the Government’s International education strategy - global growth and prosperity, launched today (29 July) in London by Vince Cable, Secretary of State for Business, Innovation and Skills, and David Willetts, Minister of State for Universities and Science.

International students make a vital contribution to the UK economy. Developing a vibrant and multinational student base is in line with the Research Councils’ ambition to make the UK a destination of choice for the best researchers in the world. We are pleased the report recognises this and supports the Government’s commitment to make entry to the UK for international students as straightforward as possible.

RCUK particularly welcomes the actions identified in the report in the area of educational technology. This is a significant area of investment for the Research Councils and we will continue to work with partners such as the Technology Strategy Board on future collaborations to maximise our impact in this area.

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Further information

Contact:
Katie Clark
Press and Communications Manager
Tel: 01793 444592 or email: Katie Clark

Notes to editors

1. International education strategy: global growth and prosperity is available at: https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/international-education-strategy-global-growth-and-prosperity

2. Research Councils UK (RCUK) is the strategic partnership of the UK's seven Research Councils who annually invest around £3 billion in research. We support excellent research, as judged by peer review, that has an impact on the growth, prosperity and wellbeing of the UK. To maintain the UK’s global research position we offer a diverse range of funding opportunities, foster international collaborations and provide access to the best facilities and infrastructure around the world. We also support the training and career development of researchers and work with them to inspire young people and engage the wider public with research. To maximise the impact of research on economic growth and societal wellbeing we work in partnership with other research funders including the Technology Strategy Board, the UK Higher Education funding bodies, business, government, and charitable organisations. www.rcuk.ac.uk.

   The seven UK Research Councils are:

   • Arts & Humanities Research Council (AHRC);
   • Biotechnology & Biological Sciences Research Council (BBSRC);
   • Economic & Social Research Council (ESRC);
   • Engineering & Physical Sciences Research Council (EPSRC);
   • Medical Research Council (MRC);
   • Natural Environment Research Council (NERC);
   • Science & Technology Facilities Council (STFC).