To provide better employment opportunities to international students, the UPP Foundation report suggests that the UK should "prioritize the employability ambitions and opportunities" for its international students.
As per the report, UPP Foundation's Students Futures Commission suggests working on a national campaign that supports the employability of international students. Collaborating on intelligence regarding graduate opportunities will also be a positive decision.
International students who have been completing their graduation in the UK have been straightforward about their ambitions of receiving good employment in the states. Now is the time for the UK to take measures regarding the same, the report added.
Referring to the report, Mary Stuart CBE, UPP Foundation Student Futures Commission, and the Former Vice-Chancellor of the University of Lincoln stated that the contribution made by international students in teaching, research, and facilities is significant.
Keeping in mind the contribution of international students, the same contribution is not "reflected in the provision of adequate numbers of dedicated staff to provide careers and progression guidance tailored to the culture and context of students themselves", she added.
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UK International Student Employment 2022 Report: Key Highlights
As per the report, to ensure better employment opportunities for international students, the first necessary step includes adding local and national companies to the international placement drive. The placement officers need to help facilitate new and existing opportunities for students.
The UK Government should also start working towards developing a "coordinate approach to regional trade support" along with a "proactive and sector-specific" campaign. The development should be made in accordance with the UK International Education Strategy, the report added.
The report suggests business-led organizations and top UK Universities work together for employment opportunities. The collaboration between the two will help businesses in expanding their shares, and universities will receive more opportunities during the placement drive.
During a focus group, 60 international students from seven different universities expressed their concern regarding the fewer employment opportunities available for students. They added that students need career opportunities during and after their graduation.
The UPP Foundation Report includes several suggestions that can change the overall graduate employment status of international students and can further help businesses in the recruitment process.
Senior Advisor and Commission to Study Group, Ruth Arnold stated that if the UK Government wishes to make itself a competitive study destination for international students, the employment ambitions of the students should be its top priority.
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