In the next academic year, BU students will have further opportunities to take their learning experience overseas and gain global perspectives through the UK Turing Scheme.
The Turing Scheme is a UK government programme for international education and exchanges. It provides students with transformative experiences through study, work placements, and research opportunities abroad. Placements can last between fourteen days to twelve months. To make sure these opportunities are accessible for all students, the scheme provides additional funding for those from disadvantaged backgrounds.
BU has successfully bid for Turing Scheme funding each year since the inception of the scheme in 2021 and has built upon that success again this year.
Students on the scheme have the chance to make a difference to society at a local and global level, through international projects organised by international universities that support the UN Sustainable Development Goals.
BU student Tomi Agfianto worked with the Applied Tourism Studies Research Group in Surakarta, Indonesia.
Tomi said: “The experience has enriched me academically and personally, particularly in developing cross-cultural understanding. These experiences will undoubtedly serve as valuable assets in my future career after completing my studies at Bournemouth University. I strongly encourage more students to participate in this program. The opportunities for personal growth and cultural immersion are truly transformative”
Another student, Shady Elmestekawy, gained work experience on the Accounting for Sustainability, Social and Environmental Transparency programme in Urbino, Italy.
Shady said: “This traineeship was not just about gaining technical knowledge; it was a holistic learning experience. I came away with a deeper understanding of sustainability and its importance in business, particularly in the finance sector. I learned how to work effectively in multicultural teams, appreciating the diversity of ideas and perspectives that collaboration brings. Perhaps the most significant takeaway was how much I grew personally. Living and working in a foreign country pushed me to be more adaptable, resilient, and open-minded. It also heightened my curiosity about other cultures and strengthened my motivation to pursue a global career”.
Students who take part in international opportunities benefit from increased cultural understanding and gain valuable skills that employers look for in today's globalised world. Research has shown that undertaking these opportunities leads to better outcomes including being more likely to achieve a first degree and be in professional employment within 6 months of graduation.
Meghan Ellis, Senior Global Engagement Mobility Manager at BU said:
“Internationalisation is a key part of BU’s vision, and the Turing Scheme is vital to providing students with learning and transformative opportunities through collaboration with our international educational and industry partners worldwide. It is fantastic to watch the project growing each year and see the impact of so many of our student activities on tackling current global challenges. We are excited to continue to grow our global network and connect Bournemouth to the world”.
Students interested in finding out more about the Turing Scheme and international opportunities can email [email protected].
You can find out about some of the projects BU students have worked on in the video below: