Ireland has recently launched the Global Citizens 2030 strategy to attract international students and researchers, solidifying its ambition to become a “first choice” destination for global talent[^1]. This initiative, unveiled on January 15, 2024, aims to boost the number of international students, researchers, and innovators by 10% by 2030. The strategy focuses on fostering inclusivity and excellence in the educational and living experience for international learners[^1].
One of the critical elements is aligning national recruitment targets with institutional planning frameworks to ensure a balanced approach. This involves the implementation of the International Education Mark (IEM), a statutory quality mark developed to assure high educational standards and safety, particularly after several language school closures in the 2010s[^1].
To support the growth and diversification of international talent, six Talent and Innovation Attachés will be appointed to Irish embassies and consulates in priority regions, including the US coasts, major EU capitals, Asia, and the Middle East[^1]. These attachés will play a pivotal role in enhancing international relations and aiding the recruitment of high-caliber PhD students who can address global and national challenges such as climate change and cybersecurity[^1].
The strategy also emphasizes strengthening ties with UK institutions, including Northern Ireland, by developing new mobility and exchange schemes. This effort ensures that students from Northern Ireland continue to have access to programs like Erasmus+, despite the UK’s departure from the EU scheme[^1].
Irish Minister for Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation, and Science, Simon Harris, highlighted that the plan is not only about attracting international students but also about creating opportunities for domestic students to gain global perspectives. This includes incorporating internationalization at home and offering mobility opportunities to prepare students for multinational and multicultural environments[^1].
The Irish government’s nuanced approach towards expanding its international students’ base reflects a moderate growth model. This model considers logistical challenges such as accommodation availability, environmental sustainability, and cost of living[^1]. Performance against these strategic goals will be measured by indicators such as the retention and satisfaction of international students, employer satisfaction with graduates’ international competencies, and student mobility rates[^1].
The overarching aim of this strategy is to position Ireland as a beacon of global education and opportunity, ensuring the country’s economy and society benefit from the influx of international scholars and their diverse perspectives[^1].
[^1]: https://thepienews.com/tomorrows-leaders-ireland-set-sights-on-international-students-and-researchers
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[https://thepienews.com/tomorrows-leaders-ireland-set-sights-on-international-students-and-researchers/](https://thepienews.com/tomorrows-leaders-ireland-set-sights-on-international-students-and-researchers/)
