Leaders reiterate their support for international students in South Yorkshire

5th March 2025

Regional leaders in South Yorkshire have reiterated their support for international students.

• MPs, councillors and business leaders across Sheffield have signed a statement reiterating their support of international students
• The statement, coordinated by Sheffield's two universities, highlights the positive impact international students have on the region culturally, socially and economically
• Sheffield is one of the UK cities that benefits the most from international students

Regional leaders in South Yorkshire have reiterated their support for international students.

A statement, coordinated by Sheffield Hallam University and the University of Sheffield, has been signed by both university Vice-Chancellors, the Mayor of South Yorkshire, Sheffield MPs, and NHS, council and business leaders. 

Every year, thousands of international students from over 150 countries choose to make Sheffield and South Yorkshire their home, whilst they study and work here. 

Sheffield is one of the UK cities that economically benefits most from international students. International students from the 2022/23 cohort brought a net economic benefit of £771 million across all parliamentary constituencies in Sheffield, and £914 million in South Yorkshire. 

The statement highlights the positive impact international students have on the region culturally, socially and economically. 

Professor Liz Mossop, Vice-Chancellor of Sheffield Hallam University said: “We are proud to welcome international students to their new city and region. They bring diverse perspectives, innovative ideas and global connections that enrich our communities and remind us of the importance of cultivating global citizenship in our universities.”

Professor Koen Lamberts, President and Vice-Chancellor of the University of Sheffield said: “We are so proud that students from around the world choose to study in our city and region. Their impact extends beyond our campuses, and they make a difference to the lives of people across all of our communities. This statement sends a clear message that Sheffield and South Yorkshire value their important contribution and they continue to receive a warm welcome here.”

Abtisam Mohamed, Member of Parliament for Sheffield Central and Co-Chair of the All-Party Parliamentary Group for International Students said: “Sheffield is enriched by international students in countless ways and I’m proud to say that Sheffield Central can offer a safe, inviting home alongside a world-class education. As a Co-Chair of the APPG for International Students, I am pleased to see leaders from across our city and region coming together to show our support, so that they know they are welcome here.”

The statement has been updated from a previously published statement in September 2023, with updated statistics and new signatories to account for new MPs in the region and roles. 

You can view the new statement here.