U21 launches Sustainable Student Pathway

U21 Global Student is a new student pathway designed by Universitas 21, providing sustainable international experiences for all students across the network. The pathway, delivered in partnership with Common Purpose, brings together U21’s existing student programmes with a suite of bespoke online initiatives. U21 Global Student provides students with opportunities to develop their leadership potential and international networks whilst supporting them to make a sustainable impact on their communities and further their future aspirations. 

Initiatives within the pathway range from international competitions to win seed funding for a social enterprise, to sustainability themed internships with global employers. Although each programme can be completed independently, students can also complete multiple programmes to deepen their connection to the U21 Global student community and continue their international journey. 

The innovative nature and impact of these opportunities was recently recognised by the PIEoneer Awards 2021, run by the PIE News, in which U21 won the Sustainability International Impact Award. Since the start of 2020 more than 6,000 students have been given the opportunity to take part and connect internationally with their peers.  

Three of the four U21 Global Student programmes are delivered in partnership with Common Purpose, a global not-for-profit organisation that specialises in cross-boundary leadership. Andy Coxall, CEO of Common Purpose commented “Common Purpose are delighted to partner with U21 creating accessible, sustainable, international experiences. By working in partnership we have delivered a range of bespoke programmes, enabling U21 to bring together students from all 27 member universities, supporting the development of a generation of global citizens.” 

The programmes have also been popular with our students, gaining excellent feedback. One participant commented; “ I've truly broadened my global perspectives through interactions with students from diverse cultural, geographic and educational backgrounds. I've also made a few great friendships […], and overall feel better equipped to tackle social inequality in my own community. Overall a very valuable experience I'd recommend to those around me!” 

You can find out more about U21 Global Student on our website where applications are currently open for the popular Global Citizens Programme.