News Archive
July 2004
£82 million pounds into Wales.
International
students brought an estimated £82 million pounds into Wales
this year, making higher education
one of the fastest growing industries in Wales
.
The figures published in April this year by the Wales International Consortium (WIC), show that the number of international students in Wales has increased to 5,437 students, representing an increase of 39% on last year.
Virginia West , the Director of the Wales International Consortium said “We are absolutely delighted that so many international students are choosing to study in Wales ”
“International students make a valuable contribution to the national economy in Wales , benefiting both higher education institutions and local service providers.”
“ Wales higher education still represents exceptional value for money, attracting international students who seek affordable education. International students are committed to working hard and finding well paid professional work after graduation”.
A student from Nigeria who graduated last year from the medical college at Cardiff University said “My family worked very hard to find the money to send me to the UK to study. I am very grateful that Wales was able to offer me quality education at an affordable price. I am now practising as a qualified doctor in Nigeria and I am able to support my whole family”.
Dr. Tim Westlake , Chair of the WIC Board said ”This is a marvellous opportunity for everyone involved!”.
“International students are able to graduate from higher education institutions in Wales and secure well-paid employment; higher education institutions and service providers in Wales are able to benefit from the contribution that international students make to the economy. It’s a ‘win-win’ situation!”.
The Wales International Consortium intends to develop their marketing and recruitment activities to attract even more international students into Wales next year.