Turning the Tide: Why the United States Must Do Better in the Global Competition for International Students and Scholars
From U.S. Newswire Releases:
In order to compete effectively in the growing global competition for talent, the United States must take more seriously its stake in welcoming the world's best students and scholars, says a new report issued today by NAFSA: Association of International Educators.
"Restoring U.S. Competitiveness for International Students and Scholars" argues that the absence of a national strategy to attract international students and scholars is starting to show its effects, and urges a renewed commitment by the United States to this important asset.
The contributions of international students and scholars to foreign policy and public diplomacy are well known.
In today's global economy, they are also a vital part of the pipeline of talent on which the United States relies to fill jobs at the cutting edge of research and industry.
Numerous countries have implemented proactive recruiting strategies to attract international students and have adjusted their immigration and work laws to create a more welcoming climate for international talent.
At the same time, the United States' capacity to participate in the growing global competition for international students and scholars has been limited by the impact of post-9/11 visa restrictions, by America's diminished image in the world, and -- perhaps most decisively -- by the absence of a national strategy to protect the U.S. interest in this key asset.
The Departments of Homeland Security, State, Commerce and Education need strong policy direction, clear mandates and better synergy in order to coordinate their work related to international students and scholars -- whether related to recruitment, services or monitoring -- and pursue a coherent and positive course of action.
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