University of Hertfordshire’s international work praised by The King at royal reception
In a distinguished ceremony held at Windsor Castle last night (Tuesday, 9 July), the University of Hertfordshire’s internationalisation strategy was celebrated as being “one of the best in British business” by an elite, royal circle that included The King.
Jo Stuart, Pro Vice Chancellor for International and Marketing Communications at the University of Hertfordshire, attended the royal reception in recognition of the University’s recent, prestigious win of a King’s Award for Enterprise in International Trade.
As part of the event for winners of the esteemed award – which is considered the UK’s highest business honour, endorsed by both the Prime Minister and The King - Jo, on behalf of the University’s International team, enjoyed a royal welcome, with King Charles, The Duke and Duchess of Gloucester and The Duke of Kent all congratulating her on her team’s achievement.
One of 252 organisations to have achieved the accolade this year - and the only university - the King’s Award for Enterprise recognises those who are leading in their fields in international trade, innovation, and sustainable development. The University of Hertfordshire was commended for its outstanding achievements in international growth; with its overseas sales surging by 330% over the past six years, even despite remarkable global challenges such as the COVID-19 pandemic and notable political and economic disruptions.
The 58th year of the Awards – formerly The Queen’s Award for Enterprise and instituted by Royal Warrant in 1965 – winners can use The King’s Awards Emblem for the next five years on their products and to promote their services.
His Majesty’s Lord Lieutenant of Hertfordshire Robert Voss, King Charles’ personal representative, will formally present the University’s International team with a Grant of Appointment scroll and Crystal at University in the new academic year.
Jo Stuart, Pro Vice Chancellor for International and Marketing Communications at the University of Hertfordshire, said:
"It has been absolutely incredible to achieve such prestigious recognition of our internationalisation strategy and the high-quality work we do here at the University of Hertfordshire. We have faced some hugely challenging times over the years, and yet our international team has remained committed to building strong international strategic partnerships, fostering impactful research collaborations, and creating unique global teaching and exchange opportunities for the sake of our entire University community. We are all extremely proud and grateful for the brilliant work they do.
“To be able to then meet our new King and be told that we are considered to be among the best of British business - and get the opportunity to mingle with other winners at such a prestigious event at Windsor Castle - has been quite surreal! It was also really inspiring to hear other people’s amazing stories, and lovely to celebrate our success together. It’s certainly not an evening I’ll forget any time soon!”
Herts’ international community currently amounts to more than 13,000 students from over 140 countries. In addition, Herts has 135 study abroad partners and 19 active transnational education partners, including a branch campus in Egypt, and are the largest recruiter to the UK of students from India and Nigeria.
"The University of Hertfordshire's ability to attract students from all around the world speaks volumes about the quality of education we provide,” adds Jo. “Our international students seek out our programmes because they see the immense value we offer. This diversity enriches the learning experience for all our students and staff, preparing them for a globally interconnected working world.
"International students not only ensure our financial stability amid sector-wide funding pressures but significantly boost the local economy, and bring unique experiences that drive innovation and development globally. They also enhance international relations, enrich cultural diversity, and fill critical UK skills gaps, particularly in STEM and healthcare.
“Our ethos is that higher education has the power to transform lives, regardless of one's background. The success stories of our international students are a testament to this belief, benefiting individuals, our university community, and society at large.”
To find out more information about the University of Hertfordshire’s international offering is available online.