Kingston University’s international students are considering their options for returning to the UK for the rest of the academic year, following the latest lockdown.
Some international students are concerned that with remote learning continuing until at least February, they will waste time and money by coming back.
KU international student, Shamsul Islam said: “With many travel restrictions in place, it’s a very unusual time for international students. I know that the university will welcome us back at any time but deciding on when to return to my studies is tough.”
Islam said that many international students will be sharing his feeling of “apprehensiveness” on travelling back to the UK.
Transport Secretary, Grant Shapps, has said that travellers to the UK will now need to show a negative test result to gain entry into the UK.
Shapps expressed concern about a new variant of the virus found in South Africa and told BBC Breakfast: “They’re not sure whether, for example, the vaccine will be able to deal with it in the first place, and we’re very, very keen to keep it out.”
It comes as a “major incident” was declared in London by mayor Sadiq Khan, on Friday, January 8.
Another KU international student, Farah Ahmed, who lives in Kuwait was keen on returning to Kingston to complete her studies. Ahmed worries she will “miss out” due to the national lockdown in England.
Ahmed said: “I’m hoping to return soon as Kuwait has relaxed some restrictions but the situation in the UK is constantly changing. I don’t want to waste my time or money on travelling because the situation is getting worse in London. I hope by February I will be able to come back.”
Kingston University has said that they will welcome international students back at any time but that all appropriate testing and quarantine measures should be taken.
You can check the latest government guidance for international arrivals on their website.
Shaunelle Harrydass-Clark
Emma Farr
Balsam Maki