Ministerial quadrilateral meeting - Higher Education

Economy Minister Diane Dodds today took part in a conference call hosted by Minister of State for Universities Michelle Donelan and Under Secretary of State at the Department for Business, Energy and Industrial Strategy Anna Solloway.

Economy Minister Diane Dodds today took part in a conference call hosted by Minister of State for Universities Michelle Donelan and Under Secretary of State at the Department for Business, Energy and Industrial Strategy Anna Solloway.. The meeting of Devolved Administration leaders focussed on how best to mitigate the reduction of international student numbers at UK universities during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Economy Minister Diane Dodds said: “Our higher education sector is world-leading with students from around the globe coming to Northern Ireland. International students enrich the university experience for all students, bringing greater diversity to university and college campuses, as well as fresh ideas and new perspectives.

“COVID-19 has had an immediate impact on student mobility and today’s meeting has been about working together to ensure universities can continue to attract international students. 

“It is important  Northern Ireland is part of the collective effort to consider how the International Education Strategy can be updated to respond to the impact of the coronavirus outbreak. UK wide communication and messaging is vital in reassuring students and their parents  that the UK and its world-class universities are open for business and remain a globally attractive destination.”

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