Cardiff University Defends Kazakhstan Campus Amid Human Rights Concerns
Cardiff University is defending its decision to open its first overseas campus in Kazakhstan, despite concerns raised by the University and College Union (UCU) regarding the country's human rights record and the speed of the project's establishment. The new campus, named Cardiff University Kazakhstan, is located in the capital Astana and has already begun lectures with over 300 students.
UCU's Concerns and University's Response
The UCU has voiced significant worries about Kazakhstan's human rights record, particularly regarding the safety and interests of LGBTQ+ individuals. Andy Williams of the UCU expressed concern about the potential damage to Cardiff University's reputation if the venture were to encounter problems. These concerns were amplified by the rapid planning and implementation of the campus project.
"This is a country with poor human rights records and poor records on protecting the interests and lives of queer people in particular - we're worried about that," said Andy Williams of UCU.
In response, Vice Chancellor Wendy Larner asserted that thorough due diligence was conducted and that the Kazakhstani campus presents valuable opportunities for both the institution and Wales. She emphasized that Kazakhstan is actively working to improve its human rights record and that the university's presence will contribute to educating future leaders with shared values.
Strategic Rationale Behind the Kazakhstan Campus
Cardiff University highlighted that the establishment of the campus in Kazakhstan is part of a broader strategy to enhance transnational education, especially in light of financial pressures within the higher education sector. The new campus is located approximately 3,700 miles (5,955km) from Cardiff and is intended to generate new revenue streams.
Prof Larner also noted that declining numbers of international students applying to UK universities prompted the exploration of overseas opportunities. Establishing a presence in Kazakhstan allows the university to reach students who may not be able to afford studying in the UK.
"If the international students are not coming to us in the same number, we might need to go to them," said Prof Larner.
Benefits and Potential Risks of Transnational Education
Experts like Jim Dickinson from Wonkhe, a higher education blog, explain that transnational education is a common strategy for universities to enhance their reputation, visibility, research links, and income diversification. However, there are significant risks involved, including ensuring degree quality and maintaining academic freedom amid differing legal and political landscapes. These can include restrictions on speech and research.
Campus Details and Student Perspectives
The campus in Astana was officially opened on September 3rd, coinciding with a Wales football team's World Cup qualifier in the city. Lectures began last week, with students undertaking a foundation year to prepare for degree programs.
Madison Hutchinson, the campus's student experience advisor, emphasized the positive impact of the campus, enabling Kazakhstani students to receive a UK education in their home country. One student, Asset, expressed enthusiasm for studying business management and experiencing British culture closer to home.
Staffing and Broader University Partnerships
Cardiff University also reported that setting up the campus in Kazakhstan helped to save 34 jobs at home. Astrophysicist Dr Nicolas Peretto will be teaching at the Astana campus, citing the opportunity to experience a different country as a major draw. He acknowledged the validity of some concerns surrounding the venture but highlighted his focus on teaching data science and critical thinking skills.
Other Welsh universities, including Bangor University, University of Wales Trinity St David, Cardiff Metropolitan University, and Wrexham University, have various international partnerships. Swansea University also announced a major transnational education initiative with Nanjing Tech University in China.
