ColegauCymru has responded to the Senedd’s Culture, Communications, Welsh Language, Sport, and International Relations Committee consultation on the Welsh Government’s International Strategy. Our response highlights the significant contribution of Wales’ further education colleges to the nation’s international presence and outlines opportunities for greater alignment between the strategy and the FE sector’s global activities.
The Role of FE in Promoting Wales Internationally
ColegauCymru International has long championed international development opportunities for learners and staff, ensuring that Wales is well-represented on the global stage. In the 2023/24 academic year alone, over 1,200 FE learners participated in international visits spanning 28 countries, with projects ranging from vocational training in Nepal to work placements in Canada. Additionally, nearly 100 FE staff undertook international CPD opportunities funded through projects such as the Welsh Government funded international learning exchange programme, Taith, enriching their expertise and bringing benefits back to Welsh communities and colleges.
Through the ColegauCymru Internationalisation Strategy 2022 - 2026, we support the development of global citizens by fostering purposeful partnerships, inspiring leadership, and showcasing Wales’ culture and language. The FE sector also plays a key role in attracting international learners, especially for A level study, and contributes to Wales’ economy and cultural exchange efforts.
Areas for Improvement in the International Strategy
While we welcomed the Welsh Government’s efforts to establish a cohesive approach to international relations, the current International Strategy does not place a strong enough emphasis on the contribution of FE. ColegauCymru has recommended the following enhancements:
- Recognition of FE’s ‘Soft Power’ Acknowledge how all education sectors, including FE, elevate Wales’ international profile;
- Inclusion of FE Colleges Position FE institutions as globally connected hubs that strengthen Wales’ international reputation; and
- Highlight Success Stories Celebrate achievements such as Wales’ performance in WorldSkills competitions, showcasing high-quality skills training to attract investment.
Building Global Partnerships
ColegauCymru’s partnerships have had tangible impacts. These include:
- Canada Pembrokeshire College collaborated with Newfoundland’s College of the North Atlantic on renewable energy and women in engineering projects, leading to advancements in hydrogen and wind energy training in Wales.
- Finland A Taith-funded vocational reform project enabled Welsh FE leaders to exchange expertise with Finnish counterparts, enhancing policy and curriculum development and an independently commissioned report which called for a bespoke VET strategy for Wales.
- Namibia Coleg y Cymoedd contributed to a biodiversity project by developing acoustic monitoring devices for conservation efforts, reflecting the sector’s commitment to global sustainability.
Looking Ahead
ColegauCymru is calling for better integration of FE into its international strategy and to prioritise long-term funding for mobility programmes such as Taith and the UK Government funded Turing Scheme. These initiatives are vital for developing global skills and aspirations among learners and staff.
Beyond 2025, the FE sector envisions a strategy that:
- strengthens stakeholder engagement across sectors;
- expands opportunities for FE participation in trade delegations and international collaboration.; and
- links economic and international priorities, particularly in green skills and sustainable industries.
By aligning its strategy with the broad contributions of FE colleges, Welsh Government can ensure a cohesive approach to promoting Wales’ culture, skills, and economy on the world stage.
Further Information
Senedd Culture, Communications, Welsh Language, Sport, and International Relations Committee
Welsh Government's International Strategy
For more information about our international activities, contact Project Manager, Siân Holleran:
Siân Holleran, International Project Manager
Sian.Holleran@ColegauCymru.ac.uk
Clare Williams, Policy Officer
Clare.Williams@ColegauCymru.ac.uk
