David Mundell must look at evidence on post-study work visas, say university leaders

Principals of Scottish Universities have urged Scottish Secretary David Mundell to look at evidence gathered by the Scottish Parliament on post-study visas.

The Fresh Talent Initiative offered international graduates from Scotland’s universities the opportunity to work in the country for two years after graduation.

The scheme was abolished in 2012 but its reintroduction is backed by all parties in the Scottish Parliament, including the Scottish Conservatives.

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Mundell has previously said he has “no intention” of reinstating the scheme, but later told a Commons committee he would listen to concerns.

“We will look at any reasonable suggestion to improve the current arrangements,” he told MPs of the Scottish Select Committee.

Today two international graduates who benefited from the Fresh Talent Initiative, Maulin Buch and Mary Njoki gave evidence to Holyrood’s devolution committee, which is examining the issue.

Buch (pictured) said five years ago coming to the UK for educational qualifications was an investment but “now it is just a cost”, while Njoki told MSPs Fresh Talent had allowed her to show her employer what she could do for two years and have their support for a work permit.

After the Committee meeting, Universities Scotland’s director Alastair Sim said universities were willing to work with government to find a solution.

“University leaders in Scotland urge the Secretary of State to pay attention to the concerns of talented international graduates like Maulin and Mary, who are telling us very clearly that their peers want to study in the UK but UK Government policy is putting them off.

“This means that Scotland’s universities, society and economy are missing out on the benefits that come from attracting hard-working international talent. The UK Government needs to think again on this issue and stem the flow of international talent from Scotland to competitor nations,” he said.

The topic will be explored further at the upcoming Holyrood event International Students, on 24 February 2016, featuring Minister for Europe and International Development Humza Yousaf.