Opinion | British universities should welcome Chinese students, not seek to close the door
- Concerns over Chinese influence in universities and calls for the closure of Confucius Institutes cloud the issue when China literacy is needed more than ever
- The UK benefits not just economically and culturally from Chinese students, its top universities also shape world leaders
The number of international students studying in the UK has more than doubled over the past two decades, with some 680,000 currently enrolled. A single cohort contributes an estimated £28.8 billion (US$36 billion) to the UK economy, with each person £390 better off as a direct result.
It is not only financially that the UK benefits from international students – there is a huge amount of soft power gained, too. Last year, there were 55 serving world leaders who had been educated in the UK. Only the United States had more, with 67. Positive experiences and perceptions of Britain, its people and culture create an emotional bond between alumni and the nation. The trust created is invaluable for both diplomacy and trade.
Chinese students choose the UK for a variety of reasons – the quality of education, the cultural experience and the opportunity to enhance their English, to name just a few. Many are also eager to escape the most competitive education system in the world.