Mayor of London Sadiq Khan is using his high-profile visit to Africa not only to boost trade but to reaffirm London’s global outlook—championing international students as vital to the UK’s economic and cultural strength.
While addressing stakeholders in Accra, Ghana, Mr. Khan raised concerns about proposed UK government policies that could restrict international student access to British universities. He warned that such measures risk severing invaluable global connections and undermining the UK’s competitive edge.
“Any move to shut out global talent,” Mr. Khan said, “isn’t just short-sighted—it’s economically damaging. The UK thrives on diversity, innovation, and openness, and international students are central to that.”
His warning follows Home Office data showing a troubling 16% drop in international student visa applications between July and September 2024, compared to the same period the previous year. The government is currently considering a new levy on revenue generated by universities from international students—an idea widely criticised for potentially straining already underfunded institutions.
Mr. Khan emphasized that the contribution of international students is not just financial. “They enrich our universities, our communities, and help make the UK a better, more inclusive place,” he said.
Estimates from City Hall peg the total annual economic impact of international students at UK universities at £55 billion—with £12.5 billion of that generated in London alone.
In Accra, the Mayor also highlighted positive examples of UK-Africa collaboration, notably the partnership between the University of Ghana and Imperial College London, which has already supported more than 400 students and launched 150 startups focused on climate change and entrepreneurship.
Professor Nana Aba Appiah Amfo, Vice-Chancellor of the University of Ghana, praised the initiative, stating that her institution aims to have 10% of its 70,000 students actively involved in entrepreneurship. She lauded the partnership as proof that cross-border academic cooperation yields tangible societal benefits.
Mr. Khan’s African tour—which includes stops in Lagos, Johannesburg, and Cape Town—aims to deepen trade ties and position London as a global hub for African talent and enterprise. His delegation includes 27 London-based businesses, led by the city’s economic development agency, London & Partners, all seeking expansion opportunities across the continent.
“London will always remain open to the world,” Mr. Khan declared. “But openness alone isn’t enough. We must actively build bridges—and right now, Africa is one of the most vital places to do so.”
As the UK debates its post-Brexit immigration policies, the Mayor’s tour underscores a critical message: global partnerships and inclusive talent pipelines are not optional extras—they are central to the nation’s future prosperity.
