In partnership with the British Council Scotland, we have published a report in partnership ‘Scotland’s Higher Education: Partnering for Global Impact’. The report highlights the strengths of Scotland’s higher education system and the uniqueness Scotland’s institutions across five different assets.
The assets where Scotland’s higher education system thrives nationally and globally are; Tradition of education as a national public good, whole-sector approach to quality enhancement and student experience, focus on graduate skills and employability, world-class Scottish research and innovation and positive interplay of international and local.
Commenting on the report, Professor Neville Wylie, Chair of Connected Scotland and Deputy Principal (International) at University of Stirling said;
“The report offers an insight into the distinct assets that Scotland’s higher education system has on a global scale, showcasing the attractiveness of Scottish universities to the rest of the world.
“Scotland’s universities are world-leading across many areas, particularly, research and innovation. Along with Scotland’s global reputation for quality education, Scottish universities are ideal partners for transnational education and research collaborations.
“The strength of Scottish universities lies in their collaborative spirit that underpins every aspect of universities activities, supported through organisations such as through Connected Scotland. Partnering with Scottish universities opens the door to the wider education and R&I landscape in Scotland.”
Speaking ahead of publication, Harish Lokhun, Head of Education at British Council Scotland, said:
“We help connect Scotland to the world, and the world to Scotland, through the power of education and the arts. Our universities are at the heart of this work.
“We live in an ever-changing world where political, social and economic shifts remind us of the value of strong international relationships. This publication celebrates Scotland’s outstanding universities, the expertise they offer, and the ways they are tackling shared global challenges. We hope it helps pave the way for global connections and partnerships that will thrive for years to come.”
Emphasising the importance of Scotland globally, Rachel Sandison, Deputy Vice Chancellor (External Engagement) at the University of Glasgow, and the Scottish Government’s Trade and Investment Envoy for International Education, said
“Scotland is a country renowned for its academic excellence, world-leading research and global outlook making it an exceptional place to study, research and work.
“International students who choose Scotland benefit not only from a world-class academic experience, but also from outstanding career prospects – 87% of international graduates from Scottish universities are in employment 15 months after completing their studies — a higher rate than anywhere else in the UK. This reflects the strength of our institutions, the relevance of our programmes, and the value employers place on a Scottish degree.
“Scotland’s safe and welcoming communities create an environment where students thrive both personally and academically and International students don’t just study in Scotland — they shape it. They contribute to our campuses, our communities, and our shared future. Scotland is more than a place to study. It’s a place to belong, to grow, and to make a difference.”