International student exchange visits are helping build the skills base in Northern Ireland, according to Wendy Waring, UK account manager atBritish Council.
She was speaking at a recent reception at Belfast Harbour Commissioners Office for students taking part in the International Association for the Exchange of Students for Technical Experience (IAESTE) Programme managed by the British Council.
Hosting the reception, the Employment and Learning Minister Stephen Farry welcomed 39 international students from 27 countries.
The programme sees the overseas students, all in scientific and technical disciplines, undertaking work placements for a 10-week period during the summer in Northern Ireland. Twenty- six students from Northern Ireland are on placements in 15 countries worldwide.
Speaking to students at the reception, the minister said: “I am pleased that you have decided to come to Northern Ireland to gain experience in your chosen profession.
“Students from previous years have recounted their positive experiences of Northern Ireland, and I hope that the knowledge and experience gained during your placements will prove invaluable in your chosen career and provide a platform for the exchange of ideas.
“As highlighted in my Department’s higher education strategy,Graduating to Success, I am committed to ensuring that every student has the opportunity to take part in an international mobility programme. That is why I support the work of IAESTE. The work experience gained enhances independence, flexibility, communication and foreign language skills, contributing to personal and academic development.
“The reciprocal nature of the programme means that our students gain knowledge and skills beyond our borders and local employers have the opportunity to avail of some of the brightest students from across the globe.” IAESTE is supported by the Department for Employment and Learning in conjunction with local universities and the British Council.
Wendy Waring, UK account manager at British Council, said: “The British Council is committed to using international links to develop the knowledge economy here and in doing so, we know that we’re making a significant contribution to skills development in Northern Irish companies and in our higher education institutions. The IAESTE programme is a wonderful mechanism for us to use to achieve this.”