• Researchers are launching a new study which will explore the experiences of higher education students in the UK who have fled humanitarian crises in their home countries; 
• The 12-month project, led by Keele University, will focus particularly on students from Ukraine and Syria; 
• The project is funded by the UK Council for International Student Affairs (UKCISA) 

Keele University researchers are launching a new study which will explore the experiences of higher education students in the UK who have fled humanitarian crises in their home countries. 

The 12-month project, led by staff from the Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences at Keele, will focus particularly on students from Ukraine and Syria, to better understand their needs and requirements in the short and long-term.

The project is funded by the UK Council for International Student Affairs (UKCISA) and researchers hope their work will lead to changes in public perceptions, and policy and practice at a national level.

Dr Filippo Nereo, Associate Director of Keele's Institute for Innovation and Teaching Excellence, who is leading the research, said: "Our work will promote an urgently needed evidence-informed narrative to increase understanding of, and empathy with international students who have fled humanitarian crises.

"The data generated from the study will be used to recommend enhancements in policy and practice, working with relevant stakeholders locally and nationally. Specifically, the project is interested in how international students from the two case study groups narrate their experiences of UK higher education, what unique needs and requirements, in the immediate, mid and longer-term, these students have, and how their university experiences can be enhanced."

As part of the project, an exhibition, co-designed with students, will be held where students who have fled their home countries will be encouraged to share their experiences.

Julie Allen, Director of Member Services and Policy, UK Council for International Affairs (UKCISA), said: "We are delighted to be funding Keele University’s research, which aligns with the principles of our #WeAreInternational Student Charter including creating a welcoming, inclusive and equitable environment for international students in the UK and monitoring and evaluating existing available support for international students on an ongoing basis. 

"This research will deepen our understanding of the diverse experiences and complex needs of higher education students in the UK who have fled humanitarian crises, which will help UKCISA, our members, and the wider higher education sector to deliver effective and nuanced support."

Students who are from Ukraine and Syria and currently studying in higher education in the UK can take part in the study and exhibition by contacting the research team through Dr Alison Long at a.long@keele.ac.uk. Participating students will receive a voucher and a letter confirming their participation in recognition of this extra-curricular activity. 

Further details are available at https://www.keele.ac.uk/humcri/