UK pavilion showcases world class educational opportunities at GETEX

GETEX is taking place against a backdrop of increasing numbers of international students (including those from the UAE) going to the UK,
which continues to be one of the world's top overseas study destinations.

The UK continues to attract record numbers of international students every year, including those from the UAE. According to figures from the UK's Higher Education Statistics Agency, the total number of students from the UAE studying higher education (undergraduate/postgraduate
level) in the UK in academic year 2005/6 increased by 15 per cent compared to the previous academic year. There are now over 2,000 UAE students in the UK, with undergraduates slightly outnumbering (53 per cent of the total) the postgraduates.

Respected and valued all over the world for their unrivalled academic quality and cultivation of creative thinking, UK qualifications help to give students the edge they need when competing for jobs and demonstrate the capability for independent thought and self-discipline. Studying in
the UK means conducting and analysing research, connecting creative ideas and innovation with the real world.

Alison Devine, Deputy Director of the British Council UAE, which supports the UK pavilion at GETEX, comments: "From our research, w*e
know that the top three reasons UAE students choose the UK are its academic reputation; the international recognition and prestige UK
qualifications enjoy, particularly the fact that UK degrees and diplomas are valued highly by employers; and the UK's cultural diversity.
Studying in the UK enables students to broaden their horizons and study in a welcoming, dynamic and multicultural environment. The UK is a
fulfilling place in which to live and learn and is the home of the English language."

Jane East, Assistant Education Promotion Manager, adds: "At this year's GETEX, we are highlighting some of the exciting educational
opportunities available in the UK, from English language courses to bachelor and masters degrees, through study in the UK and via distance learning. We are happy to help visitors at GETEX with all their questions about studying in the UK."

As well as featuring UK educational opportunities at its GETEX stand, the British Council will be providing a UK education enquiry service for visitors to the exhibition - covering courses, qualifications, institutions, English language requirements, visas and travel - and highlighting innovations tailored to the needs of international students.