‘Rising numbers of international students enforces need for special status’ – Archibald

SINN Féin MLA Caoimhe Archibald has welcomed the a rise in the number of students from outside the EU beginning undergraduate degrees in the north this year.

The party’s Further & Higher Education spokesperson was commenting on figures released by UCAS which outlined a 16 percent rise in international enrolments.

The East Derry MLA said: “I welcome the figures released by UCAS show a 16 percent rise in the numbers of international students from outside the EU enrolling to courses in the north.

“International students make positive social, cultural and financial contribution to our society and our ability to attract them is important with the continued uncertainties attached to Brexit.

“The figures also show a rise in the number of EU students beginning courses here.

“This reinforces the need to secure protections for the north within the EU through special status.

“Brexit will limit the opportunities of young people, hampering their ability to study, work and live across Europe and could lead to the imposition of international fees for studying across the EU.

“We need to hear students, and all other groups in society making their voices heard in the coming weeks and months,” added Caoimhe Archibald.

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