“New initiative will draw youth to work in Scotland”
Shveta Pathak

Dr Alstair Smith retired as a lecturer in Geography from the 500-year-old University of Aberdeen, Scotland, where he was also the Director of the University Development Trust and Director of International Programmes. He was recently in India to talk about the opportunities for youth in Scotland. Excepts from an interview:

What makes Scotland a preferred destination for education?

The Government of Scotland has become increasingly concerned about the falling population there, resulting in a decline in the talent pool. Realising the need to have young talent, the government is encouraging students from other countries to study in Scotland.

What effort is the government making to attract youth from other countries?

The government is starting a Fresh Talent Initiative, a scheme for non-European Union international students, that will allow them to stay and work in Scotland for up to two years after they graduate. This scheme would give students greater opportunities to live and find work in Scotland. This will be a major step forward since, at present, the students are required to return to India soon after graduation if they are unable to find employment and obtain a work permit.

During the two years covered by the scheme, students will not need a work permit and there will be no restrictions on the kind of job they can take up. They could even be self-employed during the period of their stay.

Who will be eligible for this scheme and what are the expenses involved?

International students who have achieved a degree (Bachelor's, Master's or Ph.D) from a Scottish University and also those achieving Higher National Diplomas are eligible to apply for an additional two years of stay. Expenses are on the higher side, starting from around Rs 5.50 lakh for a one-year PG course. However, as students can work up to 20 hours, the remuneration can fund a substantial part of the study.

Which are the fields that are generating jobs?

All kinds of science streams — medicine, dentistry or applied sciences — plus IT and finance are the sectors generating high number of jobs.