‘UK Graduates Have Access To Strong Alumni Network In Nigeria’

The British Council has concluded plans to host the 2015 edition of its Education UK Postgraduate Exhibition on November 4, in Abuja and November 6 in Lagos. In this interview with FLORENCE UTOR, Mrs. Adetomi Soyinka, Director of Education and Skills at the British Council in Lagos, she spoke on the Council’s decision three years ago to organise a separate exhibition for postgraduate students and what visitors to the exhibition should expect.

When did the British Council set up office in Nigeria and what are the functions of the council?
The British Council was set up in Nigeria in 1943. Globally the British Council was set up to create opportunities for people in other countries and the UK through the work that we do across different areas in the arts, in English and education, in society, and governance. The British Council is a key partner in delivering the UK government’s international education strategy, and we work with overseas governments, policy makers, practitioners, and young people to strengthen education, training and youth co-operation between the UK and other countries.

Arrangements are in top gear for the 2015 Education UK Postgraduate Exhibition in Lagos and Abuja. Why is the council focused on postgraduate students?
Our exhibitions are designed to cater to various audiences. The November event is focused on postgraduate students but we have another one next year which will accommodate both undergraduate and postgraduate audiences.

How did you arrive at the list of participating universities? Can you mention some of their specialities?
Basically, what happens is that we provide a platform for interested institutions in the UK to register. So, we don’t have a particular list, it is based on interests from the institutions. They have a wide range of specialities. Statistics show us that focal areas for most Nigerian students are Business, Administration, IT, and Engineering. Several universities in the UK are kitted to satisfy students’ needs in those subject areas but I can’t tell you the specific focus areas of the universities that are coming. I am sure that they have a good knowledge of what the interests are for Nigerian students and they are coming to cater to a wide range of subjects.

Who are your target audience for the exhibition?
Well, we are looking at professionals as well as people who have already studied at undergraduate level and potentially looking to take that next step in terms of career progression. The exhibition is basically for people who are looking to study at postgraduate level internationally.

What are the highlights of the Education UK Postgraduate Exhibition 2015?
In planning our event we considered the needs of the average individual looking to study internationally and we tailored our programmes accordingly. In the past we have worked with colleagues from the UK’s Visa and Immigration (UKVI) Department to enlighten members of the public about student visa requirements and changes in the UK visas and immigration policy. We are hoping that the UKVI will be able to join us at this year’s event. We also work with Nigerian UK Alumni; these are people who have already been through the UK education system   and are willing to share and their experiences around studying and living in the UK and the benefits that accrue from this with prospective international students.