Taith, Wales’ international learning exchange initiative, has introduced measures to make overseas opportunities more inclusive, particularly for those who have not traditionally engaged in such programs.
Changes include simplified application processes, more flexible program design, and tailored support for participants.
The program has similarly expanded access to shorter and more flexible mobility formats for Welsh higher education providers.
“For UWTSD, Taith has opened up international opportunities that genuinely work for our students – particularly those who cannot commit to long periods away from home,” said Kath Griffiths, international mobility lead at the University of Wales Trinity Saint David.
“The flexibility of the program has enabled us to create experiences that feel accessible and achievable, opening doors for learners and partnerships that previously felt out of reach.”
Taith has opened up international opportunities that genuinely work for our students – particularly those who cannot commit to long periods away from home
Kath Griffiths, UWTSD
Taith’s inclusive approach is opening up participation from organisations working with some of Wales’ most vulnerable learners.
Matt Parry, involvement and engagement manager at Llamau, a homelessness charity supporting young people, women and children, said international exchange had previously felt out of reach for the organisation.
“This was a first for us as an organisation. Our focus has always been on supporting young people, women and children at risk of, or experiencing, homelessness, so international exchange was never something we felt was meant for organisations like ours,” he said.
“Without the support, patience and flexibility we received, we simply wouldn’t have got there. Because of that approach, we have been able to give some of our most vulnerable and disadvantaged young people an experience they will never forget.”
One participant supported by Llamau who took part in a Taith-funded exchange described the experience as transformative.
“The support throughout the exchange made every moment feel special, and it’s an experience that will stay with us for the rest of our lives,” they said. “We learned so much – not just about the country we visited, but about kindness, strength and compassion.”
Since its launch, Taith has supported an increasing number of first-time mobility providers, particularly organisations working with learners facing financial, practical or personal barriers to participation.
The program has allocated more than £100,000 in additional funding to support costs such as travel documentation, transport, specialist assistance and equipment. The funding is designed to ensure learners who might otherwise be excluded can still take part in international experiences.
The program’s most recent funding round received applications from organisations in 21 of Wales’ 22 local authority areas, spanning urban, rural and coastal communities.
Susana Galván, executive director of Taith, said accessibility remains central to the program’s mission.
“Accessibility is fundamental to everything we do – it’s what makes us different. Our focus has been on making sure international opportunities are open to learners who may not have previously seen them as an option,” she said.
“By removing barriers and providing the right support, we’re helping to open up new opportunities for learners across Wales, enabling them to build confidence, develop skills and broaden their aspirations.”
An inclusive approach has long been adopted by the Taith program, after it refreshed its strategy in 2023 to make international exchange more accessible.
Wales is positioning itself as a welcoming hub for international education – differentiating itself from England, which is set to impose a levy on international student fees from 2028.
Wales, meanwhile, has made it clear it will not be adopting the levy policy.
