Pathways to International Trade Nominated for a Reimagine Education award

The European Regional Development Fund, Business West and the University of Exeter have been nominated for this year’s QS Reimagine Education Awards. The awards delivered in partnership with The Wharton School see the Pathways to International Trade programme shortlisted under the ‘Nurturing Employability’ category.

Pathways to International Trade is a week long course designed to develop the expertise of university students in international trade. Students undertake a week of intensive international trade education that they then apply during export internships with South West companies.

Taught by Business West international trade specialists, industry experts and university careers staff the course covers key topics in international trade ranging from market research and selection, international digital marketing to how to develop the right go-to-market strategy. 

Ameeta Virk, Market Specialist - India, Business West, commented:

“UK companies that export and do business overseas can benefit greatly from the skills and expertise that students bring from an internship. From language and research skills to direct knowledge of a new export market, working with students can help organisations get fresh perspectives and formulate new export strategies that develop a lasting impact on the business.”

Student feedback was highly positive about the course, and two of the participants subsequently secured full-time positions with their intern companies.

The University of Exeter’s Employment Services and Placement Manager Steven Wallers spoke about the course

“Working in partnership with Business West and their partners on this programme has enabled us to offer our students a truly unique employability opportunity. With our students benefitting from a blended learning experience utilising the expertise of Business West colleagues we have been able to support local businesses with their export strategies.”

Open to undergraduate and postgraduate students from every academic area of study, entry to the programme is assessed competitively and well over 80 students applied for just 20 places, demonstrating the appeal of this specialist course in international trade and the benefits it can deliver for students and companies alike.

The awards ceremony is due to take place in Philadelphia, on the 6th of December with winners being announced during the evening reception.