Newcastle University Recognized for Exceptional Internationalization Efforts in Higher Education

The University hosted a summer symposium with NUWEE academics and PhD students to explore research and collaboration.

(IN BRIEF) Newcastle University has been awarded the Excellence in Internationalisation honor by the European Association for International Education (EAIE). This prestigious accolade celebrates the university’s exceptional approach to integrating international research and educational opportunities, focusing on addressing societal and environmental issues. The university’s inclusive mobility programs, collaborations with global partners, and commitment to sustainability were highlighted. The award will be presented at the EAIE Conference in September. Newcastle University’s dedication to global engagement and innovation continues to make a positive impact on students and society.

(PRESS RELEASE) NEWCASTLE, 21-Aug-2023 — /EuropaWire/ — Newcastle University, a UK public research university and a member of the Russell Group, announces that it has achieved an esteemed accolade for its exceptional strides in internationalizing higher education. The institution has been honored with the Excellence in Internationalization award, recognizing its innovative approach in integrating international research and educational opportunities to address societal and environmental inequities.

The award, bestowed by the European Association for International Education (EAIE), highlights the breadth of Newcastle University’s international endeavors. The judges lauded the institution’s pioneering method of intertwining these activities with sustainability and inclusivity, ultimately fostering a holistic and impactful approach.

One of the spotlighted projects involves the creation of an inclusive mobility program, forging partnerships with international institutions to contribute positively to the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals. Additionally, the university has initiated distinctive student internships dedicated to advancing social and environmental justice.

Professor Chris Day, Vice-Chancellor and President at Newcastle University, said: ‘We pride ourselves on being a truly global institution and so to win this prestigious award from the EAIE is an honour and testament to the strength of our international learning community.’

Empowering Global Opportunities Ranked within the Global Top 110 universities (QS World University Rankings 2024), Newcastle University operates across campuses in Newcastle, Singapore, and Malaysia. The university hosts a diverse student body of 29,000 individuals from 140 nations. With 5 QS Stars 2023 credentials for inclusiveness and internationalization, Newcastle University prioritizes these facets in its approach.

Through its International Mobility Strategic Plan, the university has expanded international opportunities, encompassing study and work exchanges, global internships, research placements, and summer programs. These initiatives provide students access to career-enhancing prospects and skill development, promoting cross-cultural understanding, language proficiency, and adaptability.

The introduction of a Virtual Exchange scheme democratizes the international experience by eliminating the need for physical travel. Significant investments in the Global Scholarships program extend student participation across diverse mobility options.

Inclusive Actions in Motion Newcastle University has maintained a strong commitment to being an inclusive haven for all individuals and was awarded University of Sanctuary status in 2021.

The university has implemented initiatives such as a sanctuary café, supplementary scholarship funding, and free online sanctuary training for staff and students. Notably, the student-led North East Solidarity & Teaching (NEST) program collaborates with refugees and asylum seekers, offering English language instruction and community integration support.

More recently, Newcastle University partnered with Ukraine’s National University of Water and Environmental Engineering (NUWEE) through the UK–Ukraine Twinning Initiative. Supported by Universities UK International, this scheme fosters enduring relationships for future collaborations.

Newcastle University’s dedication to internationalization has also positively impacted students’ overall educational achievement and post-graduation outcomes.

Pioneering Sustainability Newcastle University’s commitment to sustainable development has earned it a ranking within the top 25 in the world (Times Higher Education Impact Rankings 2023). The institution also ranks 6th globally under the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goal 11 ‘Sustainable Cities and Communities’.

The university’s integration of UNSDGs into its curriculum, engagement, and research activities has led to global opportunities. Notable endeavors include student internships with the Ambassador of Barbados to the United Nations, which secured additional funding for climate change education projects in Mauritius and Barbados.

The university is currently in the process of pursuing collaborative funding for two Centers for Blue Economy in partnership with entities from various Small Island Developing States.

Furthermore, Newcastle University solidified its partnership with the International Coalition of Sites of Conscience (ICSC), an organization focused on leveraging history to address contemporary social justice issues.

Through this partnership, the university initiated a student internship program, offering distinct place-focused experiences worldwide. This program includes the participation of Muhammed Topdas, a Media, Culture, and Heritage PhD student, who completed an internship at the War Childhood Museum, an institution dedicated to the stories of war-affected children.

Award Ceremony The European Association for International Education awards, now in their 20th year, celebrate higher education institutions that have demonstrated creative responses to global challenges.

Newcastle University will be honored with the Excellence in Internationalization award during the annual EAIE Conference and Exhibition scheduled to take place in Rotterdam in September. This prestigious event will gather thousands of professionals from around the world, marking a significant recognition of the university’s outstanding efforts in the realm of internationalization.

Media contact:

Louella Houldcroft

Director of Communications
Tel: +44 (0) 191 208 5108
Email: louella.houldcroft@ncl.ac.uk

SOURCE: Newcastle University