The UK higher education sector stands at a pivotal point, navigating rapid change amid shifting political, financial, and global landscapes. At Butex, we believe in stepping into that space not only to respond, but to lead. Our rebranded identity and collaborative spirit aim to give mobility professionals a strong collective voice and shared direction.
As Vice-Chair of Butex, I had the pleasure of recently joining Rohan McCarthy-Gill (Chair of Butex and Head of Global Mobility at the University of Sussex) to represent our network at a special International Education Association of Australia (IEAA) webinar: IEAA Learning Abroad Forum: In Conversation with Butex held on Thursday, 1 May 2025.
This unique webinar offered a fantastic platform to reflect on the challenges and opportunities currently shaping learning abroad programming in the UK, and to build stronger connections with our Australian colleagues.
We began by introducing the Australian audience to the Butex network: who we are, what Butex does, and the role we play in supporting UK institutions. We also explored how Australian universities can engage more meaningfully with our work.
Together, we explored the evolving UK higher education landscape; from the impact of Brexit and the loss of Erasmus+ to internal restructuring, funding pressures, and visa policy changes. We also discussed the global reach of the Turing Scheme, shifting geopolitical dynamics, and opportunities for deeper collaboration between UK and Australian institutions.
Key Themes Discussed:
What is the current UK HE environment?
Challenges such as staffing reductions, funding constraints, and shifting student interest are affecting study abroad operations across the sector. At the same time, institutions are being pushed to demonstrate impact, diversify partners, and improve inclusion and employability outcomes.
What is the UK’s international focus now?
From TNE and global marketing to diversity, employability, and strategy alignment, UK universities are redefining their global engagement models, with Australia as a key partner region.
What role does Butex play?
Butex provides support through funding (e.g. scholarships), practitioner development, and strategic advocacy. We’re committed to helping institutions reimagine global mobility for the future.
This webinar was a valuable opportunity to show solidarity, share insights, and offer a UK perspective on mobility in a changing world.
On behalf of Butex, I want to thank the IEAA Learning Abroad Network for hosting us, and all the practitioners who attended and listened to our conversation. The dialogue continues, and we look forward to building on this momentum.
We’ve invited IEAA to return the favour and join us for an upcoming “In Conversation with IEAA” webinar for the Butex audience later this year and they’ve gladly accepted!
