As the world becomes more interconnected, the role of international students in higher education institutions has never been more vital. As well as providing a significant economic boost to the UK economy to the tune of £41.9bn per annual intake, these diverse individuals bring unique perspectives, experiences and ideas to UK campuses and enrich the academic and cultural environment for all. Yet, beyond the lecture halls, there also lies a significant opportunity for international students to contribute to university governance – a realm where domestic students, lay governors and academic staff make up most of the participants.
There are indeed many compelling reasons why international students should be more involved in university governance and this blog sets out the transformative impact this can have on campus life and beyond, bringing benefits to students, institutions and governors alike.
First, incorporating diverse viewpoints in university governance structures leads to more well-rounded and inclusive institutional decision-making processes. International students from different backgrounds, cultures, and nations offer fresh insights that can challenge conventional thinking and help break down cultural barriers that may be holding some institutions back from creating truly inclusive communities. For example, by actively participating in governance discussions, international students can contribute to policies that promote equality, diversity and inclusion and foster a more welcoming and supportive campus environment for everyone. In addition, educational and research policies that need to operate for all are improved when there is greater diversity of voice in the development and scrutiny processes.
