UK's education champion highlights India as 'Absolute priority' country
The UK's International Education Champion, Sir Steve Smith, has emphasised India's pivotal role in the UK's education strategy, reaffirming the Graduate Route post-study work visa for Indian students.
by India Today Education Desk · India TodayIn Short
- UK prioritises India for stronger educational ties
- Graduate Route post-study visa remains unchanged
- India-UK Achievers Honours celebrates Indian students
Sir Steve Smith, the UK’s International Education Champion, has underscored India as a top priority for strengthening educational ties, as the UK revisits its International Education Strategy under the new Labour government.
Speaking at the launch of the third India-UK Achievers honours in London, Smith reassured that the popular Graduate Route post-study work visa will remain unchanged, affirming the UK’s commitment to attracting international talent.
Highlighting the significance of Indian students in the UK, Smith stated, “India will continue to be a priority for fostering stronger bonds between our higher education systems and our people.”
The Graduate Route, a critical pathway for post-study work experience that draws many Indian students, will not face alterations—a decision preserved despite previous reviews commissioned by the Conservative government.
The India-UK Achievers honours, an annual initiative organised by the National Indian Students and Alumni Union (NISAU) UK, celebrates the accomplishments of Indian students and alumni from UK universities, recognising their impact on a global scale. Supported by entities like the British Council India, Universities UK International, and Chevening scholarships, the awards reflect the deep educational and cultural ties between the two nations.
Karan Bilimoria, President of the UK Council of International Student Affairs, echoed the sentiment, emphasising India’s global prominence and the exceptional contributions of its students and alumni worldwide.
Nominations for the “Class of 2025” are now open, with winners to be honoured at an education conference in February, showcasing the transformative influence of UK-educated Indian alumni on communities and industries worldwide.
(With PTI inputs)