The Scottish government has announced plans for a new “Talent Attraction and Migration Service” set to launch later this year, aimed at guiding and supporting students who wish to stay in Scotland for employment opportunities post-graduation.

Speaking about the initiative, Scotland’s Higher Education Minister, Graeme Dey, highlighted the country’s commitment to creating conditions for universities and colleges to thrive.

He stated, “The strategy sets out our collective aim to create the conditions for our universities and colleges to continue to flourish.”

The upcoming service will assist students seeking employment in sectors experiencing growth in Scotland.

This move aligns with the Scottish National Party’s proposal for a five-year post-study work visa for international students, showcasing the country’s dedication to maximizing the contributions of international students.

Scotland also plans to utilize its nine international offices to promote transnational education through its educational institutions and advocate for Scottish universities and their research on a global scale.

Additionally, the strategy includes efforts to strengthen connections with Scotland’s diaspora and alumni networks.

One significant aspect of the plan is the pilot project for a replacement scheme for Erasmus, tentatively named the Scottish Education Exchange Programme.

This program aims to provide students with enhanced opportunities for international education experiences.

Professor Andrea Nolan, Universities Scotland’s International Committee Convener and Edinburgh Napier’s Vice-Chancellor, expressed optimism about the strategy, stating, “The strategy gives us a platform, working together with government and other partners, to further develop these positive links to strengthen the sector’s contribution to the economy, society, and culture.”

In the academic year 2022-23, Scotland hosted 83,000 international students from 180 countries, constituting approximately one-quarter of the total student population.

This diverse cohort contributed £4.2 billion in economic benefits during that year, highlighting the substantial impact of international students on Scotland’s economy.

recent decision by the UK government to prohibit taught postgraduates from bringing family members, a policy that came into effect last month.

Launching the plan at Edinburgh Napier University, Minister Graeme Dey emphasized, “The administration hopes to maximize the social and economic benefits of international higher education and continue to promote Scotland’s world-leading research and knowledge exchange sector on the global stage.”