Minister: Unis will welcome EU students
Education leaders are heading to Brussels to say Scotland’s universities remain open and welcoming despite Brexit.
The delegation, led by Education Minister Richard Lochhead, will make clear its message that Scotland will continue to welcome EU citizens to study or work at its universities.
Mr Lochhead said: “We boast a worldleading research community with experts from different backgrounds, and multiple disciplines – a reputation illustrated by having four universities in the top 200 globally.
“This is a system that contributes significantly to the Scottish economy. Universities Scotland estimate that our universities generate £11 billion every year. That’s £11 returned for every £1 of public investment. Scotland’s universities alone represent almost six percent of all jobs in the Scottish economy.
“So, the positive impact that European collaboration has brought to Scotland is quite simply irreplaceable. I have met with students, staff and researchers across the country and the feeling is clear – Brexit is the single biggest threat we face.”
Alastair Sim, of Universities Scotland, said: “The quality of the research and education Scottish higher education delivers is strengthened because of the partnerships we have across the EU.”