DEBATE, the article was published in Spionen 17 / 11-2020 on the occasion of International Student Day. Read the article on spionen.se here
Today, November 17, is International Student Day. International students are an important part of the Swedish academy. Exchange students and freemovers from other countries create bridges to Sweden, which in turn contributes to entrepreneurship, cultural exchanges, diplomatic opportunities and academic development. And we need to get better at taking care of these students.
Today is commemorated by the students who demonstrated against the Nazi occupation of Czechoslovakia in 1939, which led to the storming of the University of Prague and the execution of nine students and professors. In 1940, Czechoslovak soldiers and former students gathered to recreate the national student organization that had been disbanded by the German occupation. Together with the British student organization, they agreed that November 17 would be a day to celebrate students, freedom, democracy and multiculturalism within the student group.
The search for insight, knowledge development and understanding is one of the central parts of higher education. Making it easy for everyone to participate in knowledge building and the exchange of experiences should be a priority issue. Unfortunately, we still have a lot to build on and there are still obstacles for international students to participate in higher education.
There are many expectations for those who intend and choose to study abroad, for both those who choose to study outside Sweden's borders as well as those who come to Sweden. Maybe one wants to explore new corners of the world, expand one's own knowledge or discover new cultures and traditions. The reasons are endless and different for each student. However, we all see that the exchange that is made enriches our experiences and gives us valuable knowledge to take through life. Therefore, there is also a need for an easy way for students to be able to start and participate in this journey.
Today, international students still face various obstacles and setbacks to participate in higher education in Sweden. We have seen how difficulties with residence permits have forced students to leave, even cases where students are denied due to unnecessary bureaucracy.
SFS wants to:
- residence permit for the entire study period is granted
- all students must be recognized as students, even those who are on exchange
- all students shall have the right to equal democratic representation
We expect simplicity, kindness, understanding and a common exchange when we leave our comfort zone. A welcoming face and a way into the community we visit. Applying for studies in Sweden should be easy for those who have curiously sought out the world. The exchange is also a benefit for the whole society as intercultural experiences are gained between the host country and the student.
Linn Sword
Vice Chairman of the Swedish National Union of Students (SFS)