UHI launches first Transnational Education Partnership for hospitality students in Nepal
Hospitality students in Nepal are being given the chance to study for a degree with the University of the Highlands and Islands (UHI).
With the hospitality industry booming in Nepal, the first intake of about 80 students will embark on their studies in January 2025.- without leaving their home country.
They will be able to gain the skills and qualifications needed to excel in the sector thanks to a new partnership between UHI and AITM (Asian Institute of Technology and Management).
The long-term vision for the Transnational Education (TNE) Franchise Partnership is not only to provide educational opportunities but also to build strong ties between the UK and Nepal, paving the way for further international collaborations.
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It marks UHI’s first venture into establishing a franchise partnership, with the BA (Hons) Hospitality Management programme chosen as the flagship course.
The aim of the franchise is to offer undergraduate and postgraduate UHI degrees at AITM, with Nepalese academics leading the teaching, supported by UHI colleagues to ensure the delivery of a high-quality Scottish qualification.
A delegation from AITM visited UHI Perth in September and participated in key approval events to finalise preparations for the first intake of students.
The delegation observed UHI’s innovative teaching practices, met Scottish and Nepalese students and explored opportunities for further collaboration.
Craig Lennox, director of international partnerships at UHI Perth, said: “This UHI AITM franchise partnership will allow Nepalese students to study hospitality management at degree level and gain a UK qualification in their home country, gaining skills in a sector that is in high demand in Nepal.”
Vicki Nairn, UHI principal and vice-chancellor, said the partnership broadened UHI’s global presence and also provided Nepalese students with affordable access to a world-class Scottish qualification right at home.
“We are excited to meet the growing demand for a global qualification in Nepal while keeping fees competitive to ensure affordability remains a key factor," she said.
"This is just the beginning. We hope the UHI AITM partnership will continue to grow and flourish, offering global education experiences to students both at UHI and AITM in Nepal."
Key partners in the collaboration include LCCI Global Qualifications, the Scottish Qualifications Authority (SQA), and Skills to Earn (S2E), providing support for applications and visas.
