Global opportunities for Welsh students
12 June 2019
Cardiff University is taking part in a new programme which offers funding to Welsh undergraduate students in Welsh universities to undertake short-duration study, work or volunteering opportunities in a range of target countries across the globe.
Global Wales Discover has been funded by Welsh Government and developed with British Council Wales.
The programme has been developed in response to figures which show that there are low numbers of Welsh students at university studying, volunteering or undertaking work experience abroad as part of their studies.
The launch event on 10 June 2019 was supported by Universities UK International.
British Council Wales Country Director Jenny Scott said: “International experience creates a generation of globally connected facing young people in Wales. Studies have also shown that undergraduates who undertake an international opportunity are more likely to get a top degree, be more employable and have higher earning power.”
“This programme will help build Wales’ presence around the world, supporting Welsh students to spend time in countries of particular interest for Welsh Government, including: USA, Canada, Japan, UAE, Qatar, Vietnam, India, China and the whole of the EU. Placements will help Wales form new relationships with individuals, organisations and institutions in these countries”
The £1.6m pilot has been developed by British Council Wales through support from the Welsh Government and Global Wales as part of the Welsh Government response to the Diamond Review’s recommendations on support for students who choose to study overseas.
The programme seeks to address shortfalls in the number of students having an international experience whilst at University by offering shorter-term, funded opportunities that can fit around students’ courses and their family and work commitments.
Minister for Education, Kirsty Williams, said: “As someone who benefited greatly from my time studying abroad as an undergraduate, I know first hand how such an experience broadens your horizons. We are taking direct action to open up opportunities, provide targeted support and improve the life chances of all learners in Wales. International study is a great vehicle to increase social mobility and I want to ensure these opportunities are opened up to everyone, from every background and across the whole of Wales.”
