Orient Magazine Issue 80 - February 2021 | Page 53

53
According to The Times Higher Education World University Rankings 2020 , three of the top 10 universities — the University of Oxford , University of Cambridge and Imperial College London — are in the UK , and 26 of its other institutions are among the world ’ s 200 best for learning .
The UK is one of the most popular study destinations in the world and , according to early data released by the Higher Education Statistics Agency , more than 6,820 Singaporean students ( excluding exchange and visiting scholars ) chose to study in the UK in the 2019 / 20 academic year . This indicates that the number of students studying full time courses in the UK appears to have remained steady from 18 / 19 to 19 / 20 . Although COVID-19 has no doubt had an impact , the provision of new UK offerings – including the Graduate Route , which will enable international students who have studied in the UK to apply for a visa to remain for between two and three years post-study in order to look for work – have also helped to support the sector .
Over the decades , thousands of graduates around the world have benefited from a British education , equipping them with in-demand skills in a competitive economic landscape . In fact , 83 per cent of international graduates surveyed by Universities UK International ( UUKi ) last year said their degree helped them get their job , and close to seven in 10 respondents said they progressed more quickly in their careers than peers educated elsewhere .
Among other disciplines , the UK is a world leader in technological innovation , and the location of many multinational company headquarters . UK universities and institutions maintain strong links with this industry and this ensures that the UK ’ s learning approaches are industry-led . As a result , students benefit from practical work and courses that are inherently aligned with current industry practices and demands , as well as rich opportunities to undertake internships and placements – helping students to gain real , applicable experience .
Although the last year has been very unsettling , it is important that students don ’ t put their futures on hold ; delaying or reimagining study plans , sometimes years in the making . Now , more than ever , is the time to continue to hope , and grow , and to take careful steps towards achieving your goals .
- Leighton Ernsberger , Director for Education & English in East Asia ,
British Council
EDUCATION & LEARNING :
UK UNIVERSITIES : ENROLMENT DURING COVID-19