Question reference: S6W-24808
- Asked by: Kevin Stewart, MSP for Aberdeen Central, Scottish National Party
- Date lodged: 25 January 2024
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Current status: Answered by Graeme Dey on 8 February 2024
Question
To ask the Scottish Government, in light of new UK visa restrictions, in relation to family members accompanying students, and any potential negative impact on student wellbeing and academic success as a result of family separation, whether it is considering any measures or support programmes to mitigate any such impact, to ensure that the reported positive contribution of international students in Scotland can continue.
Answer
We remain deeply concerned that the new UK Government visa restrictions will make Scotland a less attractive destination for international students. We are working closely with the sector to minimise impact.
Universities in Scotland are autonomous bodies with responsibility for teaching, assessment and academic and student support.
The Scottish Government will, throughout February 2024, undertake consultation events with members of the Student Mental Health and Wellbeing Working Group on a draft Student Mental Health Action Plan.
The draft Plan recognises the critical importance of early intervention and prevention, ensuring effective access to a diverse range of community-based clinical and non-clinical services, and providing timely clinical acute care for those who require it. It sets out our expectations for institutions on supporting student mental health and wellbeing and how Scottish Government will work with them and the wider public sector.