Source · Select Committees · Scottish Affairs Committee
Recommendation 101
101
We note with regret however that the Turing scheme will not—as currently envisaged—support inward placements...
Recommendation
We note with regret however that the Turing scheme will not—as currently envisaged—support inward placements to the UK. As the Government recognises, as well as providing Scottish universities and local economies with an important income source, inward placements support the cultural education and experience of UK students in a way that is difficult to replicate by other means. They also support Scottish universities’ internationalisation agenda by promoting them on a global platform and building international networks that can last a lifetime. We also regret that there is currently no long-term funding commitment beyond year-one of the Turing Scheme to the principle of international student exchange. Subject to positive year-one results from the Turing Scheme, we recommend not only that the scheme continue with at least the same level of funding in future years, but that it be expanded to incorporate the funding of international student and academic staff placements to the UK. Scottish Government ambitions to remain in Erasmus+
Government Response
Not Addressed
HM Government
Not Addressed
At Spending Review 2021, the UK Government confirmed funding for the Turing Scheme for the next three years, including maintaining total funding for mobilities and delivery of the scheme at £110 million for the 2022/23 Academic Year. We are committed to international educational mobility and have a clear aim to use the Turing Scheme as part of the long-term ambitions for a Global Britain. The impact of the first year of the Turing scheme will be evaluated so that we can continue to develop the scheme in subsequent years, to ensure it delivers on its objectives, supports students to make the most of their international experiences, and is aligned with government priorities. The Turing Scheme prioritises pupils, students and learners over staff and inward mobility funding to ensure that as many of our students as possible can benefit, including a focus on widening access for disadvantaged students. We will continue to closely engage with the Devolved Administrations going forward and ensure their views are taken into account in the future development of the Turing scheme. Regarding the Erasmus+ programme, President Von Der Leyen has previously confirmed that association by part of a country is not legally possible.