Professor Rachel Sandison, Deputy Vice-Chancellor (External Engagement) and Vice-Principal (External Relations) has been appointed the Scottish Government's Trade and Investment Envoy for International Education.

As part of the International Education Envoy’s remit, Rachel will work to promote Scotland’s academic institutions and research expertise and draw on her international connections to bridge universities with other global institutions to attract more students and staff to live, work and study in Scotland.

Rachel will also help identify opportunities for inward investment in Scotland’s higher and further education sectors, boosting Scotland’s academic and research capabilities.

The announcement was made by Richard Lochhead MSP, Minister for Business ahead of a visit to the UK-China Low-Carbon College in Shanghai, which is a joint initiative between Edinburgh and Shanghai Jiao Tong universities seeking innovative solutions to climate issues.

Rachel Sandison said, “I am delighted to have been appointed the Scottish Government's Trade and Investment Envoy for International Education. 

“This is a pivotal time for the Scottish education sector, with an opportunity to further strengthen Scotland's reputation as an education powerhouse through the development and delivery of the new International Education Strategy.

“Global connectivity is more important than ever before, and I look forward to helping connect Scotland’s further and higher education institutions with international organisations, governments and opportunities in support of Scotland’s strategic objectives. 

“I am also pleased to have the opportunity to work closely with Sir Steve Smith, the UK’s International Education Champion, to advocate for the sector at home and overseas and to reinforce Scotland’s position as a destination of choice for global talent.”

Richard Lochhead MSP, Minister for Business said: “Scotland’s research and academic excellence is recognised the world over, with innovative contributions being made to tackle severe global challenges.

“We want to support this work while maximising the social and economic benefits of international education. Attracting students from across the world presents real long-term benefits across many sectors, such as tourism, culture, higher and further education.

 “This appointment, coupled with our International Education Strategy, will help us capture these opportunities and I wholeheartedly welcome Rachel to her role.”

First published: 10 April 2025

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