Government appoints education envoy to drum up investment in universities

The Scottish Government has appointed an international education envoy in a bid to drum up cash for the country’s universities.

Professor Rachel Sandison was given the unpaid role by business minister Richard Lochhead ahead of a trip to China and Japan.

Her appointment comes as Scotland’s university sector struggles financially, with Professor Sir Peter Mathieson – principal of Edinburgh University – openly raising the spectre of scrapping free tuition fees for Scottish students.

Sir Peter’s institution has announced a £140 million funding gap, while Dundee University is wrestling with a £35 million deficit and allegations of mismanagement by previous bosses which is likely to lead to the cutting of around 700 jobs.

Prof Sandison, currently the deputy vice chancellor for external engagement at Glasgow University, said: “Global connectivity is more important than ever before and I look forward to helping connect Scotland’s further and higher education institutions with international organisations, governments and opportunities in support of Scotland’s strategic objectives.

“I am also pleased to have the opportunity to work closely with Sir Steve Smith, the UK’s international education champion, to advocate for the sector at home and overseas and to reinforce Scotland’s position as a destination of choice for global talent.”

The minister said: “Scotland’s research and academic excellence is recognised the world over.

“As our new trade and investment envoy for international education, Rachel will champion Scotland’s academic institutions and the innovative contributions they are making in fields as diverse as artificial intelligence, art and tackling climate change.

“She will help attract investment and encourage the brightest students and leading researchers to study, live and work in Scotland, contributing to the economy.”